Buddy horror comedy sees rare second-weekend box office increase

The independent R-rated horror comedy ‘Buddy’ is experiencing significant box office success, defying typical second-weekend trends by increasing its earnings. Released by Roadside Attractions and Saban Films, the film grossed approximately $5.7 million to $5.8 million during its second weekend, representing a growth of roughly 5% to 6% over its debut.

Directed by Casper Kelly, the film follows a surreal 1990s-style children’s television show where a cheerful unicorn mascot, voiced by Keegan-Michael Key, turns sinister when a child refuses to participate in the program. The film has reached a domestic cumulative total of over $14 million within its first ten days of release.

This performance marks the largest opening of 2026 for a film playing on fewer than 1,800 screens. It also stands as the second-biggest opening in Roadside Attractions’ 23-year history and the largest in Saban Films’ 12-year history. The film currently holds an 89% ‘Certified Fresh’ rating on Rotten Tomatoes.