After a four-year absence, James Bond returns for his 23rd outing in Skyfall [JB23]. Daniel Craig [DCRAI] suits up as secret agent 007 for the third time. His first assignment in Casino Royale debuted with $40.8 million in 2006, while the 2008 sequel Quantum of Solace opened with a franchise best $67.5 million. Casino Royale was highly regarded by Bond fans, but Quantum of Solace was considered a disappointing letdown. Oscar winner Sam Mendes [SMEND] was recruited to direct Skyfall, with another Oscar winner Javier Bardem [JBARD] starring as the villain. Judi Dench [JDENC] returns as M, while Ben Whishaw [BWHIS] plays the first Q of the Craig era. Skyfall has already opened in most of the world setting new records in 007’s home country of Great Britain. Positive reviews and audience reception from overseas are helping Sony build buzz and anticipation for the PG-13 rated film. Opening on IMAX a day early should also get the good word out. As the only wide new release this weekend, Skyfall has little competition. Playing in 3505 theaters, Skyfall could land $80 million over the weekend.
Families will continue to flock to Disney’s Wreck-It Ralph [RALPH]. The animated world of videogames should hold better than 60% and coin up another $30 million.
Flight [FLIGH] proved Denzel Washington to be once again Mr. Reliable at the box office. The drama may decline 40% in its second weekend to around $15 million.
That’s the whisper from the virtual trading floor.
Tag(s): JB23, DCRAI, SMEND, JBARD, JDENC, BWHIS, RALPH, FLIGH
