Sony Pictures appears to be nearing the end of its Spider-Man universe experiment as its latest instalment, Kraven the Hunter, faces bleak box office projections. The R-rated film, which hits theaters on 13 December, is expected to open with a mere US$13–15 million (as per Comic Book), marking the lowest debut in the franchise’s history. These numbers fall below even Madame Web’s US$17.6 million start, which was already the weakest opening for a Sony Spider-Man-related film.
This potential underperformance underscores a growing challenge for Sony’s Spider-Man Universe (SSU). Despite star power from Aaron Taylor-Johnson, who portrays the titular character, and direction by Triple Frontier‘s J.C. Chandor, the film faces stiff competition from Disney’s Moana 2, projected to retain the No. 1 spot with US$30 million, and Universal’s Wicked, expected to earn US$18–20 million. If Kraven the Hunter opens in third place, it will be the first SSU film to fail to debut in the top two spots.
The SSU officially includes six films: Venom, Venom: Let There Be Carnage, Morbius, Madame Web, Venom: The Last Dance, and now Kraven the Hunter. However, diminishing returns have plagued the franchise. While Venom and its sequel were financial successes, Morbius and Madame Web faced critical and commercial disappointment. Kraven the Hunter, with a reported US$110 million budget, may join the list of underperformers, casting doubt on the future of Sony’s superhero slate.
Looking ahead, Sony does have one bright spot: the upcoming Spider-Man 4, set for release on 24 July 2026. Starring Tom Holland and potentially introducing Miles Morales to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, this film offers a chance for Sony to align more closely with the highly successful MCU.
For now, Kraven the Hunter will close out Sony’s troubled year, which included flops like Fly Me to the Moon and Harold and the Purple Crayon. While the studio saw some success with Venom: The Last Dance and Bad Boys: Ride or Die, the road ahead for Sony’s Spider-Man universe looks increasingly uncertain.
Natalie is a big fan of anything related to movies, TV shows, and anime — you name it. When she’s not reading or being a dedicated cinephile, she’s probably playing gacha and tabletop games, or daydreaming of Sylus from Love and Deepspace.
Kevin Low
