Gerard Butler’s 2017 action sci-fi film, Geostorm, has recently surged in popularity on streaming services, despite its poor performance during the theatrical release. The film, which initially failed to impress both audiences and critics, has now become a prominent streaming hit, demonstrating Butler’s continued draw as a leading man in the action genre. This resurgence highlights the unpredictable nature of movie success in the streaming era.
Geostorm, directed by Dean Devlin, features Butler as Jake Lawson, a satellite engineer trying to prevent a global catastrophe caused by malfunctioning climate-control satellites. Though the cast includes notable actors such as Jim Sturgess, Ed Harris, Abbie Cornish, Andy Garcia, and Zazie Beetz, the movie received overwhelmingly negative reviews, holding an 18% score on Rotten Tomatoes. Financially, the film was also a disappointment, earning $220 million against a reported $120 million budget.
The Streaming Success and Its Implications
As of September 14, Geostorm ranks as the second most-watched film on HBO Max worldwide, trailing only behind Hypnotic (2021). It outperforms popular titles such as The Conjuring 2 (2016), Karate Kid: Legends (2025), and White Chicks (2004) on the platform. Despite these streaming numbers, the financial shortfall from its theatrical run means the film likely has not broken even, as Hollywood movies typically must earn around two-and-a-half times their budget to become profitable.
What makes this streaming success particularly notable is the contrast with audience reception; the Rotten Tomatoes Popcornmeter, reflecting viewer ratings, is only 35%. Such a low score indicates that while viewers may not highly rate the film, Butler’s star power and the film’s sensational premise are compelling enough to draw significant viewer interest on streaming platforms.
Although a sequel to Geostorm is not in the works, Gerard Butler fans can look forward to his next disaster movie role in Greenland: Migration, scheduled for release in January 2026. Meanwhile, Geostorm’s revival on HBO Max serves as an example of how films that stumble initially in theaters can find a second life online, potentially reshaping how Hollywood views success in the streaming era.
Gerard Butler’s Recent and Upcoming Projects
Gerard Butler has maintained a steady presence in the mid-budget action movie sector, with notable roles in films such as Den of Thieves (2018) and its upcoming sequel, Den of Thieves 2: Pantera, set for 2025. He is also known for leading the Has Fallen franchise, which has enjoyed consistent success since its first installment in 2013. Butler is expected to reprise his role in the announced Night Has Fallen movie, continuing his streak in action-centered roles.
In addition to these franchises, Butler has starred in recent action films like Plane (2022), which was a surprise hit, and Kandahar (2023). Alongside this, he has featured in disaster films including Greenland (2020) and the sci-fi disaster genre blend found in Geostorm. These projects underscore Butler’s niche as a dependable lead in films balancing moderate budgets with action or disaster themes.
