Warner Bros. faces projected $245 million loss for Tom Cruise film ‘Digger’

The dark comedy satire ‘Digger’, directed by Alejandro González Iñárritu and starring Tom Cruise, is facing a massive commercial failure at the global box office. Following a 60% decline in ticket sales during its second weekend, industry analysts project the film could incur losses of approximately $245 million.

While the production budget was initially set at $125 million, costs rose to an estimated $160 million to $180 million due to scheduling overruns. Combined with roughly $100 million spent on global marketing, the total investment is estimated at $280 million. With worldwide earnings currently at approximately $35.3 million and projected to finish near $50 million, the film is significantly short of the $300 million to $350 million required to break even.

Critical reception has been polarized. Some viewers and critics have described the film as an ambitious, experimental work, while others have labeled it a disappointing or unsuccessful satire. Despite the financial downturn, filmmaker Guillermo del Toro has defended the project, praising its bravery and experimental nature. The film’s performance comes at a transitional period for Warner Bros., as the studio undergoes an acquisition by Paramount Skydance.