The newest superhero offering from Marvel Studios has been a major hit both here in Ireland and overseas.

'Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings' has claimed the title as the most successful movie to be released in Irish cinemas on opening weekend since before the pandemic.

Launching on Friday, September 3, the newest Marvel Studios’ release starring Simu Liu and Awkwafina debuted at number one at the Irish box office, claiming over 48% of the market share over a three day period.

The movie generated €562,000+, posting the biggest opening weekend in the pandemic era. It was the same story over in the UK, with 'Shang-Chi' drawing in €6.5 million over a three day period.

The Marvel blockbuster also smashed records in the US, outperforming forecasted expectations and earning itself $71.4 million each day on opening weekend. The total global earnings now stand way above the $127.6 million that was reported yesterday. Not bad for a movie with a total reported budget of $150 million.

Our movies editor Brian Lloyd awarded the Marvel movie four stars, saying: "By turns poignant and entertaining, frantic and considered, 'Shang-Chi and The Legend of the Ten Rings' is another enjoyable addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe."

However, in comparison to Marvel's previous blockbuster release 'Black Widow', which was released simultaneously in cinemas and on Disney+, it looks like it might not hit the heights set by Scarlett Johansson's swan song - at least not yet. With a release date for South East Asia and China still not set, and with many cinema theatres in Australia currently closed, it might be some time before we understand the full earnings of 'Shang-Chi' at the global box office.

In light of all of this, however, the recent figures of 'Shang-Chi' at the Irish box office are extremely encouraging, especially with cinemas operating at reduced capacity for the time being.