2024 is currently serving as more of a Will Smith redemption arc than serving as a year of Hollywood hits. Smith's box office mojo remains unrivaled, despite the various controversies and narratives surrounding the Oscar-winning star. His latest film, Bad Boys: Ride or Die, earned a staggering $5.9 million in domestic preview screenings, securing one of the highest preview totals for an R-rated film. This feat was previously held by the 2023 banger, Cillian Murphy Starrer, Oppenheimer.

This achievement is a testament to Smith's enduring appeal and his ability to bounce back from adversity. Although none of it came easy for the star. 

The R-rated film's success is a nod to Will Smith’s loyal fan base, who have stood by him through thick and thin. Moreover, scoring with a clean record is undoubtedly an easier path than making it through a complex mindset and hesitant environment. At a point, the controversies surrounding Smith's 10-year ban from the Motion Picture Academy for the 94th Oscars night and his personal life breached the headlines slamming the Smith family left and right. 

However, it did not completely dampen Will Smith's fans' enthusiasm for his work. Instead, they have rallied around him, propelling Bad Boys: Ride or Die to box office success. Almost thirty years after the original installment, this latest gig in the Bad Boys franchise has proven that Smith's brand is bigger than any scandal. But no, the movie did not really rely on the audience's sense of empathy to score big.

Owner of a Multi-Million Car Collection, Will Smith Remembers the First Car He Brought and Its Tragic Story

It actually had a few key strengths that worked wonders for the movie. 

Smith's ability to deliver high-octane action films accompanied by Martin Lawrence’s timely comedy served to be the best summer blockbuster hit that the box office needed. Nonetheless, Smith's on-screen charm and charisma, and over-the-top promotion tips have won over audiences worldwide, making him a household name. Love him or hate him, Will Smith knows how to bring in the bucks.

Riding on Bad Boys: Ride or Die’s success, Smith has once again proven his mettle as a box office draw. The film's success is a reminder that, in the world of Hollywood, talent and appeal can triumph over controversy and scandal. According to the latest updates, the movie with a total budget of $100 Million has over-performed itself, earning $104M on its worldwide box office opening weekend. 

Will Smith’s ‘Bad Boy: Ride or Die’ Debuts With a Whopping Scorecard on Tomatometer

As the numbers continue to roll in, one thing is clear: Will Smith is here to stay. What are your opinions on the same?