Soulm8te, the anticipated spinoff of the M3GAN franchise, will debut exclusively on digital platforms starting August 1, after Universal Pictures removed it from their release schedule. This decision follows the disappointing performance of M3GAN 2.0, which grossed only $39.1 million globally, a stark contrast to the $180 million earned by the original film.
Soulm8te's Transition to Home Video
Blumhouse Atomic Monster, the production company behind Soulm8te, is pivoting to a home video release as a response to the box office failure of M3GAN 2.0. In a statement, producer and Blumhouse Atomic Monster CEO Jason Blum praised director Kate Dolan, stating, “Kate Dolan has expertly blended tech paranoia with erotic thriller in Soulm8te, which is just as fun as that sounds, but also has more on its mind than you might think.”
The film stars Lily Sullivan as an AI-powered companion assisting a grieving man, played by David Rysdahl. The ensemble cast also features Claudia Doumit and Arty Froushan, adding depth to the narrative.
What to Expect from Soulm8te
Soulm8te is described as a satirical and unhinged exploration of themes like desire, obsession, autonomy, and control. Dolan emphasizes the film's unique qualities, suggesting it is best enjoyed in a social setting, stating, “It’s a movie that knows how ridiculous it is, and I’d argue it’s best watched the way you’d watch Basic Instinct or Showgirls now, with friends, a drink in hand, and zero shame about shouting at the screen.”
Box Office Performance of M3GAN 2.0
The release of M3GAN 2.0 last summer was met with mixed reviews, ultimately leading to its underwhelming box office performance. The first installment, directed by Gerard Johnstone, was a significant success, which made the sequel's failure all the more surprising. The stark difference in earnings has prompted a reevaluation of future projects within the franchise.
- M3GAN 2.0 grossed: $39.1 million
- Original M3GAN grossed: $180 million
- Soulm8te release date: August 1
🤖 This article was rewritten by Feed and Figures' editorial AI from a report originally published by Hollywood Reporter. Facts and quotes are preserved from the original; the rewrite focuses on clarity and structure. For the unedited original, see the source link below.
