Mark Wahlberg Dethrones Denzel Washington in Shocking Box Office Upset

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Although Mark Wahlberg’s movie, “Flight Risk,” may not be highly favored by audiences, it did manage to secure him a new position elsewhere. The action thriller made its debut in theaters last weekend and dethroned “Mufasa: The Lion King” at the box office, earning over $13 million. This latest role propelled Wahlberg ahead of another Hollywood legend, Denzel Washington, on a list of the highest-grossing stars of all time, according to The Numbers. While both actors stand at $2.7 billion earned domestically, Wahlberg now ranks #40 on this list.

As a movie critic, I’d say that “Flight Risk,” in my view, unfurls the tale of a U.S. Marshal escorting a witness from Alaska to New York on a modest aircraft. However, as the journey progresses, the atmosphere becomes charged as he uncovers the true identities of his fellow passengers are not what they seem. The talented Michelle Dockery, Topher Grace, Leah Remini, Monib Abhat, and Paul Ben-Viktor bring their acting prowess to the screen under the skilled direction of Mel Gibson.

In simple terms, the movie under discussion currently has an astounding 26% rating from critics and a somewhat kinder but still lackluster 64% from audiences on Rotten Tomatoes. This is yet another low-rated film for Wahlberg, who recently acted in the emotional drama “Arthur the King” alongside Marvel’s Simu Liu, which received a 69% rating from critics. Last year, the Netflix production “The Union” paired Wahlberg with Halle Berry in the thrilling world of espionage but only secured a 38% score. Despite earning a 27% on Rotten Tomatoes, Apple TV+ has announced plans for a sequel to the 2023 release “The Family Plan“.

Will Denzel Washington Reclaim His Spot?

Samuel L. Jackson leads the pack in earnings at the box office, raking in a staggering $5.8 billion primarily due to his roles in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Joining him in the top ten are other Marvel stars such as Robert Downey Jr., Chris Pratt, Scarlett Johansson, Zoe Saldaña (who’s also profited from James Cameron’s Avatar series), Bradley Cooper, and Chris Hemsworth. Hollywood veterans Tom Hanks, Tom Cruise, and Harrison Ford round off the list. To maintain or boost their positions, Mark Wahlberg and Denzel Washington would need to star in another blockbuster hit.

During the whirlwind of promotions for “Gladiator II” in 2024, I sent a wave of surprise through fans when retirement rumors swirled around me. Yet, in an interview with Today Show Australia, I, the twice-honored Academy Award winner, set the record straight about my comments, dispelling any doubts and ensuring everyone that I’m still very much in the game.

At this stage of my career, I’m focused on collaborating with outstanding filmmakers. I’ve got a limited number of films left in me, and I aim to explore new territories. At 22, I played Othello; at 70, I’m reprising the role. Next up is Hannibal, followed by discussions with Steve McQueen on a project. Ryan Coogler has written a part for me in the next Black Panther. Then, I plan to do another adaptation of Othello. After that, King Lear is on my list. Once those roles are done, I’m planning to hang up my acting shoes.

Spectators are eagerly anticipating Washington’s role in Ryan Coogler’s upcoming film, “Black Panther 3,” a part that could help him regain his prominence against Wahlberg. Moreover, it’s thrilling to know that Washington is also keen on directing. Currently, Washington is slated to perform on Broadway this year, sharing the stage with Jake Gyllenhaal in a production of William Shakespeare’s “Othello,” set for winter.

For the first time on Broadway since 1982, the classic play “Othello” is being revived. Back then, James Earl Jones played Othello, and now Denzel Washington takes on the title role, while Jake Gyllenhaal portrays Iago. People magazine shared exclusive photos from the first day of rehearsals. Washington made his Broadway debut in 1988 with the play “Checkmates.” Since then, he has graced the stage in productions like Shakespeare’s “The Tragedy of Richard III,” “Julius Caesar,” a revival of Lorraine Hansberry’s “A Raisin in the Sun,” and August Wilson’s “Fences,” which earned him a Tony Award. The production will be directed by Tony award-winner Kenny Leon, and performances will start at the Barrymore Theater in New York City this February.

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2025-02-02 00:31