Part 2/10:
In the days leading up to Shang-Chi's release, media outlets primarily focused on its initial slow marketing campaign and uncertain prospects. Many reports emphasized that the movie's opening weekend might only approximate or slightly exceed the previous labor day record of $30.4 million, with some even hinting it could underperform. The prevailing narrative was that the film was on track for a disappointing showing, and studios seemingly "lowered expectations" to soften the blow.