Two remake/reboots/reimaginings/whatever you’d like to call them headline the weekend box office – will either of them be able to topple Real Steel from the top of the heap? Check our predictions to find out:
The classic 80’s dance film Footloose is remade for a brand new generation, directed by Craig Brewer (Black Snake Moan, Hustle and Flow) and staring Julianne Hough, Andie McDowell, Dennis Quaid and Kenny Wormold as Ren, the character that made Kevin Bacon a heartthrob in the original. While none of the names are box office draws, the power of nostalgia could deliver some good numbers for Footloose. I’m thinking of teens that loved the first film are now adults with kids of their own – the movie could wind up a nice outing for families (moms and daughters, more specifically). I’m predicting Footloose debuts in second place with $15.5 million.
The second 80’s film revisited this weekend is The Thing, a prequel to the 1982 film directed by John Carpenter. This film takes place immediately prior to the original and shows us how the team in Antarctica discovers the title creature. The Thing stars Mary Elizabeth Winstead (Scott Pilgrim Vs The World) and Joel Edgerton (Warrior), neither who have much box office clout. With Carpenter’s The Thing more of a cult favourite, I think this new version is going to struggle at the box office, even though it is October. I’m predicting a third place finish with $12 million.
Also new this weekend is The Big Year, staring Owen Wilson, Jack Black and Steve Martin as birdwatchers competing with another to spot the most species in a year. Have you seen any ads for this one? I know I haven’t. A great cast, but this movie is flying under the radar. I’m predicting a fifth place finish and $6 million.
As for the rest of the top 5, look for Real Steel to maintain its number one position for the second weekend in a row with $17 million. The movies maintained the spot for the week and I see no real competition to change that. The Ides of March has been coming in second throughout the week, but with the two high profile entries coming in, the George Clooney-directed film will drop to fourth place with $7 million.
So, to recap, here are our predictions:
1) Real Steel – $17 million
2) Footloose – $15.5 million
3) The Thing – $12 million
4) The Ides of March – $7 million
5) The Big Year – $6 million
Be sure to check back on Sunday to see how the box office turns out!
