#tros article

'Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker' disappointed with an opening weekend gross far below expectations.

The final installment of the Skywalker Saga should have broken box office records. (...)

The opening for Episode IX of the Skywalker Saga definitely fell below expectations. Back in October, Box Office Pro set its forecast range at $185-225 million with a central prediction of $200 million. Still below the other two in the trilogy but pretty hopeful. Last week, following disappointing buzz and reviews, the site lowered the forecast range to $160-190 million with a central prediction of $183 million. Following Thursday night previews, other experts guessed at least $195 million.

It’s not surprising, of course, given that negative buzz and critical reception. Reviews for The Rise of Skywalker have been scathing, giving the live-action side of the franchise its worst Rotten Tomatoes and Metacritic scores since The Phantom Menace. But this isn’t just another matter of critics versus fans. Moviegoers also showed signs of disappointment by giving the movie a B+, which is the live-action franchise’s only grade below an A-. Even Solo received better marks.

While the buzz may temper after more people respond to the negative reactions with a shrug of “it’s not that bad,” The Rise of Skywalker continues to draw criticisms based on further developments about its narrative faults. 

Revelations have come about in the press over details only found in books, video games, and director Q&As that fans wish had been included or clearer in the actual movie.  (...)