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Despite the considerable financial stakes—over $300 million spent on production—it appears that Dial of Destiny is tracking poorly at the box office. In fact, initial estimates indicate that its opening weekend wouldn't even come close to that of Kingdom of the Crystal Skull from 2008. Critics, who often serve as a barometer for audience reception, were already hesitant, branding this installment the worst-reviewed Indiana Jones film of all time.
This poor reception is especially alarming for Disney, which cannot afford another misstep given the franchise's history. The studio's recent track record with big-budget releases has been less than stellar, and the underwhelming start for Dial of Destiny might be a sign of dwindling interest in the franchise.