While Guy Ritchie's latest theatrical release, In the Grey, stumbled at the box office with a mere $3 million domestic opening, another of his recent films is finding a massive second life on streaming. The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare, a World War II action thriller starring Henry Cavill and Reacher's Alan Ritchson, has surged to the top of Peacock's charts in May 2026, proving that audiences are still hungry for Ritchie's brand of high-octane storytelling—just not necessarily in theaters.
Released in 2024, The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare is based on the true story of a covert British military unit during WWII. The film features a star-studded ensemble including Cavill, Ritchson, Eiza González, Hero Fiennes Tiffin, Henry Golding, and Alex Pettyfer. Despite mixed critical reviews (68% on Rotten Tomatoes), the movie has earned a strong 91% audience score, which has fueled its streaming success. It currently holds the number one spot on Peacock's domestic chart, a remarkable turnaround from its theatrical run, where it grossed only $29 million worldwide against a $60 million budget.
Ritchie's Streaming Redemption
Guy Ritchie has experienced a rocky few years at the box office. His last major hit was 2021's Wrath of Man with Jason Statham, which earned over $100 million globally. Before that, he scored back-to-back successes with the billion-dollar Aladdin remake and the $110 million-grossing The Gentlemen. However, since 2021, Ritchie's theatrical releases have struggled, with In the Grey marking his fourth consecutive box-office disappointment. Yet, his films consistently find a passionate audience on streaming platforms, and The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare is the latest example.
For fans of Alan Ritchson's action hero persona in Reacher, this WWII epic offers a different but equally compelling showcase of his talents. Ritchson's performance in The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare has been praised by audiences, and the film's success on Peacock is a testament to his growing star power. If you're looking for more of Ritchson's work, check out our piece on Alan Ritchson Proves He's More Than an Action Hero in 'Ordinary Angels' Streaming Hit.
Why Streaming Is the New Box Office
The shift in viewing habits is undeniable. While In the Grey struggled to draw crowds to theaters, The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare is thriving in the comfort of viewers' homes. This trend mirrors what we've seen with other action-heavy titles. For instance, Netflix's 'Rebel Ridge' has become a go-to for fans of gritty, tactical action, much like Reacher. Similarly, Tom Cruise's Jack Reacher has found new life on Paramount+ ahead of 2026, proving that streaming platforms are the new home for action franchises.
Ritchie's ability to craft visually spectacular, fast-paced action sequences is a perfect fit for the streaming era. The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare delivers exactly what audiences expect from a Ritchie film: sharp dialogue, stylish violence, and a charismatic cast. The movie's 91% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes reflects that viewers are embracing it for what it is—a fun, adrenaline-fueled war movie that doesn't take itself too seriously.
What's Next for Cavill and Ritchson?
Both Henry Cavill and Alan Ritchson are riding high on the success of their respective projects. Cavill continues to be a sought-after leading man, while Ritchson's Reacher series remains a massive hit for Amazon. With The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare now a streaming juggernaut, it's clear that audiences are eager for more collaborations between these two action stars. For now, fans can catch the film on Peacock and enjoy a thrilling ride through history with a Ritchie twist.
Stay tuned to ShowtimeSpot for more updates on streaming hits and box office surprises.
