The latest major releases are making their mark at the box office, with "Tron: Ares" leading the charge. The sci-fi sequel, part of a five-decade-old franchise, debuted with a solid $4.8 million in Thursday previews, setting the stage for an estimated $45 million opening weekend from 4,000 North American theaters. This performance is roughly consistent with its predecessor, 2010’s "Tron: Legacy," which opened with $44 million.

Directed by Joachim Rønning and starring Jared Leto, Greta Lee, and Evan Peters, "Tron: Ares" is projected to add another $40 million to $45 million internationally, potentially pushing its global total to between $85 million and $95 million by Sunday. The film, which required a significant investment of $180 million to produce and tens of millions more for marketing, will need to demonstrate strong endurance at the box office to be considered a commercial success given its substantial budget.

Alongside "Tron: Ares," two other new films entered the market. Paramount’s R-rated dramedy "Roofman," starring Channing Tatum and Kirsten Dunst, garnered $1 million in previews. Critically acclaimed, "Roofman" is based on the true story of a con man who escapes prison and hides in a toy store. Developed and produced by Miramax with a production cost under $20 million, it is anticipated to open between $8 million and $12 million from 3,340 locations.

The musical "Kiss of the Spider Woman," featuring Jennifer Lopez as a fantasy film queen, is expected to gross $1.5 million to $3 million from 1,300 screens. Based on a Tony-winning Kander and Ebb show, this film was independently financed for over $30 million. After receiving respectful reviews at Sundance, it was acquired by Roadside Attractions and Lionsgate for distribution.