Sydney Sweeney’s latest film Christy has opened to a disappointing $1.3 million at the domestic box office, according to Box Office Mojo. Released in over 2,000 theaters, the biographical sports drama ranks among the weakest wide-release debuts of 2025. Directed by David Michôd and premiering at TIFF, the film stars Sweeney as boxing legend Christy Martin. Despite a 67% Rotten Tomatoes rating from 138 reviews, the film failed to connect with audiences. This marks Sweeney’s third theatrical underperformance of the year.
Sydney Sweeney’s Christy opened in U.S. theaters on November 8, 2025, grossing $1.3 million across 2,012 locations. The film, distributed by Mubi, premiered in the Special Presentations section at the Toronto International Film Festival. It follows the life of Christy Martin, a trailblazing female boxer, and features a cast including Ben Foster, Merritt Wever, and Chad L. Coleman. Despite critical interest, the film struggled to attract a wide audience amid a crowded release weekend.
Cast, Performance, and Release History
Christy is directed by David Michôd (The King) and co-written with Mirrah Foulkes from a story by Katherine Fugate. Sweeney portrays Christy Martin, with Ben Foster as James V. Martin and Merritt Wever as Joyce Salters. The film’s modest opening follows similar results for Sweeney’s Americana ($500K) and Eden ($1M), both released earlier in 2025. Her Apple TV project Echo Valley debuted in June after a limited theatrical run.
Industry Commentary and Critical Response
Trade analysts described the opening as “one of the worst wide-release debuts for a new title this year.” Despite this, critics praised Sweeney’s performance, calling it “committed and emotionally raw.” The film holds a 67% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, suggesting mixed-to-positive reception. Deadline and ScreenRant noted that the crowded marketplace and genre limitations may have contributed to the film’s muted box office impact.
Career Momentum and Market Trends
The underperformance of Christy adds pressure to Sweeney’s 2025 theatrical record, which has yet to yield a breakout hit. While her streaming projects have found niche success, her box office appeal remains uncertain. The film’s reception highlights ongoing challenges for prestige biopics in a market dominated by franchise and genre fare. Sweeney’s continued presence in award-season titles suggests long-term potential despite short-term setbacks.
What’s Next: Awards Season and Future Releases
Christy will expand to international markets later this month, with Mubi handling distribution in the U.K., Germany, Italy, and Australia. Sweeney is expected to appear at the Gotham Awards and has upcoming roles in Echo Valley promotions and a new untitled thriller. Whether Christy gains traction during awards season remains to be seen, but its TIFF premiere positions it for potential recognition.
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