Two 3D blockbuster heavyweights, one a prequel the other a sequel, will battle for box office supremacy this weekend. Targeted at vastly different audiences, both have a chance to prevail on top. More than 30 years after directing Alien, Ridley Scott [RSCOT] returns to sci-fi and the same cinematic universe with Prometheus [PROME]. Fox has avoided calling the film a prequel to Alien even though it’s perhaps the worst kept secret. Who could blame them with the decline of the franchise and the two lackluster Alien vs. Predator spinoffs. Charlize Theron [CTHER], Noomi Rapace [NRAPA] and Michael Fassbender [MFASS] star in the space bound action horror, but the main attraction driving buzz is Scott’s return to the Alien world. The R-rating could keep out young male teenagers, but that didn’t hurt 300 with its $70 million opening. Prometheus has already opened overseas to mostly positive reviews. Adult moviegoers have been highly anticipating a smart summer film amongst the dumb popcorn fares. Landing in 3394 theaters, Prometheus may uncover $60 million.
DreamWorks Animation has churned out another sequel Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted [MADG3], the third film in their zoo animal escapade series. It’s been nearly four years since the last installment opened to $63 million in November 2008. DreamWorks’ last two films Kung Fu Panda 2 and Puss in Boots underperformed in 2011. Are fans still clamoring for another Madagascar? Even if they weren’t, there hasn’t been an animated film for the kiddies since The Lorax debuted at $70 million in March. Trailers for the PG-rated Europe’s Most Wanted have been fun, which should be enough to entice parents to take their kids. Opening in 4258 theaters, Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted may bust out around $59 million.
Snow White & the Huntsman [SWHTM]. Even with new competition from both sides of the audience spectrum, Snow White & the Huntsman should hold its own and tally about $29 million.
Men in Black 3 [MIB3] looks to decay another 50% to $14 million in its third outing.
That’s the whisper from the virtual trading floor.
Tag(s): RSCOT, PROME, CTHER, NRAPA, MFASS, MADG3, SWHTM, MIB3