AceShowbiz - The 2022 movie Jurassic World Dominion, starring Chris Pratt, has claimed the title of the most expensive film ever made, Superherohype reports. Universal Pictures spent around $658.8 million on the production, surpassing previous records for blockbuster budgets.

Comingsoon adds that the high costs were largely driven by the challenges of filming amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Production was paused during lockdowns, but Universal continued to pay for soundstage rentals and salaries to keep the cast and crew available. The cast also stayed for five months in a UK hotel at roughly $600 per night per room, contributing to the expenses. Additionally, the studio employed an average of 454 staff members monthly during peak filming, with total staff costs exceeding $36 million, excluding freelancers. To manage the complex financials and permits, Universal established a dedicated production company, Arcadia Pictures, which filed financial reports extending through 2026 and showed additional costs amounting to nearly $75 million.

The previous record-holder was Disney’s 2015 release Star Wars: The Force Awakens, which cost about $638.9 million, Superherohype notes. Universal was reimbursed approximately $127.8 million through the UK’s Audio-Visual Expenditure Credit program, reducing the net cost to around $531 million.

AceShowbiz database records Chris Pratt among the film’s lead actors, known for his extensive work including roles in the Everwood TV series and multiple blockbuster franchises. His involvement in high-profile projects like this reflects his continued prominence in major Hollywood productions.

Despite Jurassic World Dominion grossing over $1 billion worldwide, Collider explains that Universal’s share after theater cuts was roughly $500 million. However, the studio is expected to have recouped profits through ancillary markets such as Blu-ray sales, merchandising, and streaming rights, highlighting the complex economics behind mega-budget films.

This article is based on reporting originally published by Superherohype.