In 2015's Jem and the Holograms, which is (very, very) loosely based on the popular eponymous 1980s cartoon series, a talented-but-shy musician hits it big when a secret recording of her song goes viral. The film itself didn't get such a warm reception amid its release.

Jem, which was distributed by Universal, earned just $1.3 million this weekend. This officially earns the project the distinction of the worst opening for a major studio release playing in at least 2,400 theaters, according to Box Office Mojo. For reference, We Are Your Friends, which is regarded as the summer's most significant flop, made $1.7 million in its opening.

And, to speak locally, Jem made less than $550 per theater.

At a keynote speech on Saturday (October 24) in Los Angeles, Jem director Jon M. Chu, who was already privy to the movie's not-so-strong projections, said it simply didn't move fans of its predecessor.

"I get fans sending me hate mail, I get death threats, I get racist remarks—it's a really fun business," he said, according to Billboard. "Reviewers have been harsh, to say it lightly."

Chu noted that the film's paltry $5 million budget softens the blow a bit, but noted to a crowd of film buffs "...this morning isn't the best kind of day."

Did you see Jem this weekend, and are you surprised to hear the audience was so sparse? Share your reaction.

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