NEW YORK CITY: The Blumhouse evil-doll horror film 'M3gan' got off to a killer start, debuting with $30.2 million in ticket sales, according to studio estimates, while 'Avatar: The Way of Water' continued its box-office reign in the top spot.

Universal Pictures' 'M3gan,' about a robot companion built for a young girl after her parents are killed in a car accident, rode strong buzz and viral dancing memes to an above-expectations debut. In the low-budget slasher starring Allison Williams, Blumhouse and producer James Wan crafted Hollywood's first hit of the new year, likely spawning a new high-concept horror franchise.