One of the most highly anticipated non-sequel film ever, The Hunger Games [HGAME] arrives as the lone wide release for what is shaping up to be a record–breaking weekend. Based on the best-selling novel by Suzanne Collins, the story is set in a dystopic future where teenagers fight a battle royale to the death as televised entertainment. The PG-13 rated adaptation stars Jennifer Lawrence [JLAWR] in the lead role of Katniss. The Hunger Games has drawn comparison with the Harry Potter and Twilight franchises for appealing to a crazed legion of young adult book readers. Lionsgate has deftly built up awareness and interest within the demographic with a steady stream of information about the movie. While the Twilight films skewed heavily female, The Hunger Games has managed to capture the attention of males with its action. The hype and positive reviews are also attracting non-fans and older adults. Trackings for the film has been through the roof for weeks, while advance ticket sales are climbing at a fast pace. With thousands of sold-out showings, The Hunger Games is poised for one of the biggest opening weekend ever. Alice in Wonderland’s $116 million record for March and a non-sequel film looks to be in jeopardy. The Hunger Games could crack the top five opening weekend of all times, which currently has The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 1’s $138 million at fifth and The Twilight Saga: New Moon’s $142 million at fourth. Opening on approximately 10,000 screens in 4137 theaters, The Hunger Games could track down around $138 million.
The TV remake 21 Jump Street [21JST] brought out moviegoers young and old. The action comedy has excellent word of mouth as demonstrated by its underestimated box office on Sunday. Although The Hunger Games poses as a formidable competition, 21 Jump Street is also likely to benefit from any spillover audience shut out of sold-out showings. 21 Jump Street may book $21 million in its sophomore session.
Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax [LORAX] looks to take another 40% decline to $13.5 million. The $200 million write-off John Carter [OMARS] is due for another 50% drop to $6.5 million.
That’s the whisper from the virtual trading floor.
Tag(s): HGAME, JLAWR, 21JST, LORAX, OMARS