There’s a new king of the box office jungle this weekend, as the latest high profile release in theatres took down the competition. Here’s what went down:
Kong: Skull Island debut this weekend at number one, bringing in an estimated $61.4 million, which is on the higher end of what pundits were anticipating. While the lack of a big blockbuster name draw probably hindered its crossover appeal, strong word of mouth and critical notices helped the first instalment in a new Monarch shared universe find an audience. The trouble is, Kong: Skull Island cost $185 to make, and it’s doubtful it will make that back in North America. The film will have to play well overseas for it to earn a franchise. I had a chance to see Kong: Skull Island and was thoroughly entertained. There’s a strong Heart of Darkness/Apocalypse Now vibe throughout the entire film, from names to soundtrack, and the sfx were solid. It’s definitely one to see on the big screen.
As for the rest of the top five, Logan was in second place with $37.9 million, raising its two week total to $152.7. The film fell 57% week to week, which leads one to believe that even with all of the critical accolades, Logan hasn’t quite been able to cross over to another, non-comic book audience. Regardless, Logan will become the best performing film in the Wolverine franchise, a fitting send-off for Hugh Jackman.
Get Out crossed the $100 million mark this weekend, landing in third place with $20 million. The Shack was in fourth place with $10 million, while The LEGO Batman Movie closed things out in fifth with $7.8 million.
So, to recap, here were our predictions:
1) Logan – $44.5 million
2) Kong: Skull Island – $43 million
3) Get Out – $20 million
4) The Shack – $7 million
5) The LEGO Batman Movie- $9 million
And here’s how the weekend turned out:
1) Kong: Skull Island – $61.4 million
2) Logan – $37.9 million
3) Get Out – $20 million
4) The Shack – $10 million
5) The LEGO Batman Movie- $7.8 million
Next week sees the release of Beauty and the Beast and The Belko Experiment. Be sure to check back on Friday to see our predictions.
