Can an R-rated comedy that draws big laughs still bring in outsized ticket sales at the box office?Jennifer Lawrence’s “No Hard Feelings” will put that question to the test as the raunchy funny film opens over the weekend in 3,000 North American theaters, where it’s expected to earn a tepid $12 million in its debut.That’s not a terrible result at a time in which theatrical comedies, especially of the R-rated variety, have become something of endangered species.
But it also wouldn’t be a great start considering its star power, $45 million budget and prime June release date.
Earlier this year, Universal’s wild R-rated “Cocaine Bear” opened to $23.2 million — and (with all due respect to the drugged-up grizzly) that film wasn’t headlined by one of the biggest names in Hollywood.Attendance at the domestic box office will be crucial for “No Hard Feelings” because broad comedies…
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