NEW YORK — A wave of feverish anticipation, critical acclaim and groundbreaking cultural meaning pushed “Black Panther” to a record-setting $192 million debut in U.S. and Canada theaters, firmly establishing the superhero sensation as a box-office landmark.

The Marvel film from the Walt Disney Co. blew past expectations to become the fifth-highest-grossing debut ever, not adjusting for inflation, following only “Star Wars: The Force Awakens,” “Star Wars: The Last Jedi,” “Jurassic World” and “The Avengers.”

In estimates Sunday, Disney predicted a four-day holiday weekend of $218 million domestically and a global debut of $361 million.

Though the film’s international footprint doesn’t include several of the largest markets — China, Russia and Japan — it still ranks among the top 15 global debuts ever. It’s also the highest-grossing February opening weekend.

Ryan Coogler’s film, which cost about $200 million to make, is the most expensive movie with a largely black ensemble and among the few to be centered on a black superhero. The strong opening suggests “Black Panther” will easily set a box-office record for films directed by a black filmmaker.

The previous best is Sidney Poitier’s 1980 comedy “Stir Crazy,” which took in $322 million domestically, when inflation is calculated.

Last week’s top film, the erotic romance sequel “Fifty Shades Freed,” slid to third place, with $16.9 million in its second week for Universal. Sony’s children’s book adaptation “Peter Rabbit” held much stronger, taking the No. 2 spot with $17.3 million in its second week.

Estimated ticket sales for Friday through Sunday at U.S. and Canadian theaters, according to comScore.

1. “Black Panther,” $192 million

2. “Peter Rabbit,” $17.3 million

3. “Fifty Shades Freed,” $16.9 million

4. “Jumanji Welcome to the Jungle,” $7.9 million

5. “The 15:17 to Paris,” $7.7 million

6. “The Greatest Showman,” $5.1 million

7. “Early Man,” $3.2 million

8. “Maze Runner: The Death Cure,” $2.5 million

9. “Winchester,” $2.2 million

10. “Samson,” $2 million.