Warner’s horror thriller It debuted two years ago, delivering the best opening for an R-rated horror movie with $123 million.
The original still is the highest-grossing horror film with $700 million in worldwide ticket sales. It: Chapter Two could generate between $95 million to $110 million opening weekend, according to early tracking.
While that number is behind the first film’s start, ticket sales could rise if buzz continues to build for the sequel.
Director Andy Muschietti returned for the follow-up, based on the second half of Stephen King’s popular novel.
It: Chapter Two picks up 27 years after the first story, with the sewer-dwelling, shapeshifting clown returning to terrorize the citizens of Derry, Maine.
Bill Skarsgard is reprising his role as Pennywise. James McAvoy, Jessica Chastain and Bill Hader are playing the adult version of Losers’ club, who were originally portrayed by Jaeden Martell, Sophia Lillis and Fin Wolfhard.
It: Chapter Two should benefit from being the only nationwide release that weekend.