If those projections hold, the 20th Century and Disney film will claim the No. 1 spot on the chart ahead of Disney Animation holdover Encanto.

West Side Story had hoped to clear at least $15 million in its start.

Musicals face a huge challenge in the pandemic era since they rely on older adults, and particularly older females.

So far, moviegoers over the age of 35 are the leeriest in terms of returning to theaters due to the pandemic.