Michael Keaton’s $8.7 Million Action Thriller Film Achieves Global Success on Netflix Three Years Later

Michael Keaton adds another chapter to his impressive filmography as his action thriller, The Protégé, transforms from a box office underperformer into a global sensation on Netflix—three years after its release. Despite earning a mere $8.7 million during its theatrical run in 2021, it has since captured the attention of streaming audiences worldwide. Keaton initially gained fame with his memorable comedic role in Tim Burton’s Beetlejuice (1988), later solidifying his status as a cinematic icon through his portrayal of Batman in both Batman (1989) and Batman Returns (1992).

Following a diverse career that spanned an array of genres—including comedies and dramas like Clean and Sober, Much Ado About Nothing, and Herbie: Fully Loaded—Keaton experienced a notable comeback in 2014 with Birdman, where his performance as a washed-up actor earned him an Academy Award nomination. His recent projects include principal roles in critically acclaimed films such as Spotlight and a return to the cape in 2023’s The Flash and the upcoming Beetlejuice sequel set for 2024. However, his forays into action thrillers have met with mixed results, with titles like American Assassin (2017), The Protégé, and Knox Goes Away (2023)—which he directed—failing to make a significant impact at the box office.

The Protégé Emerges as a Netflix Success

Positioned 7th in Global Rankings

After its initial lackluster performance, The Protégé is making waves on Netflix, now ranking seventh in Netflix’s Global Top 10 movies with 6.3 million views and a total of 11.4 million hours viewed. Notably, it currently stands as one of the few non-Christmas-themed films in the chart this week, alongside other notable titles such as The Six Triple Eight and Terminator: Dark Fate. Impressively, it has secured a spot in the Top 10 across 21 countries, particularly in regions such as South America, Central America, and the Caribbean.

However, it’s crucial to note that The Protégé is not available on Netflix in the United States, but can be streamed at no cost on The Roku Channel.

Implications of The Protégé’s Streaming Success

Optimized for Streaming Audiences

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fSqa0a3mGk8

The Protégé (2021 Movie) Official Trailer – Michael Keaton, Maggie Q, and Samuel L. Jackson (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fSqa0a3mGk8)

Despite its initial box office failure, grossing a modest $8.7 million, The Protégé found its niche on the streaming platform. Critics initially panned the film, citing it as unworthy of the talents of stars like Maggie Q. Yet, the narrative’s cinematic style, combined with its high-octane action sequences, renders it an engaging watch for viewers at home. Although the plot may not withstand rigorous analysis, the film undeniably offers an entertaining experience, perfectly tailored for the streaming era.

Source: Netflix

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