The majority of this 77-minute episode is spent discussing all of the reasons why Tom Holland and Zendaya’s MCU-affiliated Spider-Man: Brand New Day nabbed a record $360 million weekend in North America amid a near-record $912 million worldwide debut.

Joining us, once again, is Aaron Neuwirth of The Code is Zeek, Out Now with Aaron and Abe, and 2 Black Guys Talk Godzilla.

Among the subjects of discourse…

* A few “well, actually” disclaimers related to inflation, early preview showings and Detective Chinatown 3’s $398 million Fri-Sun opening weekend.

* Why Brand New Day’s record-high domestic debut is even more impressive in light of COVID-era theater closures and multiplexes not being able to just play Spider-Man 4 on every screen throughout the first few days.

* Spoiler talk (with warning beforehand) related to Sadie Sink’s spectacular performance as Red Ghost.

* Why Spider-Man: Brand New Day is a comic book superhero movie for today’s kids

* Sequel teases and random thoughts on Avengers: Super Smash Bros. Secret Wars

* A glass raised to our friendly neighborhood Punisher

* Meanwhile, in another universe, The Odyssey barely missed a beat on its way to (very soon) pass $1 billion at the worldwide box office

* As Hadestown nears $20 million, a toast to the only movie where “Hey, it only dropped 80% in its second weekend!” can be seen as a legitimate compliment

* Indie studios cannot chase trends; they have to start them

* Predictions for Spider-Man: Brand New Day’s second weekend grosses

* And more!!

Recommended Reading/Listening…

* Scott Mendelson wondered aloud how Jumanji: Open World will fare in December, playing alongside Avengers: Doomsday and Dune Part Three.

* Jeremy Fuster spoke to IMAX executives Patricia Keighley and (the late) David Keighley to discuss how their 20-year professional relationship with Chris Nolan culminated in The Odyssey becoming the first feature to be shot on IMAX.

* Lisa Laman discussed this year’s Oak Cliff Film Festival.

* Ryan Scott picks five Star Wars novels that merit getting a movie or show.

* Max Deering’s latest Action For Everyone episode brings on Patrick R. Young to hype up this month’s fourth-annual Big Bad Film Festival.

* Aaron Neuwirth interviews Mortal Kombat II director Simon McQoid.

If you like what you hear…

Please like, share, comment, and subscribe (using a cartoon mallet) with every justified ounce of strength and passion.

If you’d like to reach out and offer good cheer, request in-show discussions, or suggest ideas for bonus episodes, email Asktheboxofficepod@gmail.com.

* Scott Mendelson - The Outside Scoop and Puck News

* Jeremy Fuster - TheWrap

* Lisa Laman - Land of the Nerds, Dallas Observer, Pajiba, Looper, Autostraddle

* Ryan C. Scott - SlashFilm, Fangoria and Inverse

* Max Deering - Fangoria and Action For Everyone

* Aaron Neuwirth - The Code is Zeek and We Live Entertainment

Get full access to The Outside Scoop at scottmendelson.substack.com/subscribe