The early estimates were in, and it was an exceptionally strong weekend at the box office, as two films grossed over $40 million. Here’s what went down:
Rio 2 gave families a new option and performed very well, bringing in an estimated $45 million to secure to the top spot at the box office. The summer season is right around the corner with larger movies on the way, but Rio 2 scores at least bragging rights for its debut.
Coming in second this weekend was Captain America: The Winter Solider, which brought in an estimated $42 million, a drop of 56% from its first weekend, which is actually a very good number. The film is already close to outperforming the original film in North America, and should be the second non-Iron Man Marvel film to cross the $200 million mark at home. For the record, in just three weeks in worldwide release, the movie has already grossed close to $500 million, demonstrating that Cap resonates around the world.
As for the rest of the top five, new horror film Occulus debut in third place with $12.8 million, in front of Draft Day, which could only muster up $10.8 million. Divergent closed things out in fifth place with $7.5 million.
So, to recap, here were our predictions:
1) Captain America: The Winter Soldier – $43 million
2) Rio 2 – $41 million
3) Occulus – $15 million
4) Draft Day – $13 million
5) Noah – $10.5 million
And here’s what the early estimates are telling us:
1) Rio 2 – $45 million
2) Captain America: The Winter Soldier – $42 million
3) Occulus – $12.8 million
4) Draft Day – $10.8 million
5) Divergent – $7.5 million
Next weekend sees the release of the new Johnny Depp film, Transcendence. Be sure to check back on Friday to see our predictions.