Three new releases will do battle for your box office bucks this weekend – the latest from Pixar, a Vampire Hunting former president and an under the radar comedy from Steve Carrell. Will any of these be able to claim top spot? Here are our predictions:
Brave is the new release from Pixar and is the story of Merida, a skilled archer who defies a family tradition, throwing her world into chaos. Pixar + empowered female character = big big bucks. Pixar’s track record is nothing less than solid, and in certain situations (see Toy Story) absolutely fantastic. There’s a lot of awareness about Brave and I think it’s going to be a huge hit this weekend. It helps that Madagascar 3 is entering its third weekend in release; the audience won’t be particularly split at this point. I’m predicting Brave will score big this weekend and earn $64 million to debut in first place.

Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter, filmed in 3D, is based on the novel of the same name. Seth Grahame-Smith wrote the screenplay, based on his original novel about the secret life of the 16th president of the U.S.A.. So here’s a question to ask yourself – who is in the movie? It’s ok if you can’t name anybody – the cast is relatively unknown, especially star Benjamin Walker. This is going to prove to be a huge problem this weekend, as the concept is so off the wall that it’s going to have issues bringing in a non-fanboy audience. However, what’s worse is that that group isn’t particularly eager to see the movie either. Look for a disappointing third place finish for the film with $15 million.

The third notable release this weekend is Seeking A Friend For The End of the World, staring Steve Carrell and Keira Knightly. This one is definitely under the radar, a small film that seems out of place in the world of summer blockbusters. This film looks to be a comedic take on the themes dealt with in the asteroid classic Sudden Impact, and it’s a one that I’m very interested in seeing. I doubt it will have much impact this weekend though, likely debuting outside the top five with $8 million.

As for the rest of the top five, Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted will have to settle with $20 million and second place this weekend, while Prometheus will drop to fourth with $10 million. Rock of Ages will close things out with $9.5 million.

So, to recap, here are our predictions:

1) Brave – $64 million
2) Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted – $20 million
3) Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter – $15 million
4) Prometheus – $10 million
5) Rock of Ages – $9.5 million

Be sure to check back on Sunday to see how the weekend turns out!