Tom Cruise’s latest film, Digger, is projected to lose around $245 million during its theatrical run after its box office earnings fell sharply in the second weekend, writes Variety.
The environmental satire earned $14.4 million in North America and $35.3 million worldwide by the end of its second weekend.
The film opened with $8 million domestically and $20 million globally, raising concerns about its commercial performance.
Warner Bros. initially expected the film to lose between $150 million and $200 million.
However, its weak box office results have pushed the projected loss higher, with the film expected to earn only around $50 million worldwide by the end of its theatrical run.
Directed by Alejandro González Iñárritu, Digger reportedly had a production budget of between $160 million and $180 million. Warner Bros. also spent approximately $100 million on global marketing.
Industry estimates suggest the film needs to earn around $350 million worldwide to break even, although a Warner Bros. spokesperson has put the figure at $300 million.
Cinemas typically retain about half of ticket sales, making it difficult for expensive productions to recover their costs through theatrical releases alone.
The dark comedy stars Cruise as a wealthy oil tycoon whose company triggers a potential environmental catastrophe.
The production was initially approved with a budget of $125 million, but costs increased after filming ran over schedule.
Several Hollywood figures, including Anne Hathaway, Jane Fonda, Guillermo del Toro and Mandy Patinkin, have publicly defended the film and encouraged audiences to watch it in cinemas.
Their support, however, has yet to translate into stronger ticket sales.
The film’s financial outlook is further complicated by Cruise’s deal, which reportedly allows him to receive a share of revenue before the studio recovers its production and marketing expenses.
Digger adds to Warner Bros.’ difficult year at the box office, following commercial disappointments such as The Bride! and Supergirl.
Its performance also comes during a major transition for the studio following Paramount’s acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery.
