James McAvoy Says ‘Split’ Is The Only Film That ‘Really Consistently Pays Me’

James McAvoy says M. Night Shyamalan’s 2016 film *Split* is the only one that still consistently earns him residual payments. His account highlights how unusually strong the film’s early box-office performance was, and how a modestly budgeted release can continue generating income for its star.

McAvoy recalled that residual cheques can sometimes be worth only a few pence, while *Split* began paying him after its opening weekend. He estimated its production budget at about $6 million and said it earned $40 million in its first weekend; the film ultimately grossed $278.45 million worldwide. He also praised Shyamalan’s preparation and focus while making films on modest budgets.