Universal Pictures “Candyman,” starring Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, earned more than $22.3 million at the box office this weekend, despite concerns over the delta variant. Co-written by Jordan Peele and directed by Nia DaCosta, “Candyman” delves into an urban legend that believes if someone repeats “Candyman” five times in front of a mirror, that person would summon the hook-handed killer. The sequel is a follow up to the original “Candyman” in 1992.

“Candyman” took over the No. 1 spot from “Free Guy,” which scored first place at the box office the previous two weekends. The action comedy starring Ryan Reynolds as a background character in a video game, earned more than $13.5 million. In third place, “PAW Patrol” earned $6.6 million. Based on the popular kids TV show, “PWE Patrol” has garnered more than $24 million since its debut. “Jungle Cruise” placed fourth with $5 million. whioe “Don’t Breathe 2” earned $2.8 million, “Respect” starring Jennifer Hudson brought in $2.2 million and “The Suicide Squad” tallied just over $2 million.

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