The first big-budget, effects-laden blockbuster hopeful of the year arrives this weekend in Jack the Giant Slayer [JACGK]. Nicholas Hoult [NHOUL] stars as the title character in a modern reimagining of the classic English fairy tale. The $200 million fantasy epic was originally set to open last summer until Warner Bros. delayed the release to spruce up the special effects. Director Bryan Singer [BSING] is best known for his superhero movies, but he has not made a film since 2008’s WWII thriller Valkyrie. Even then, his male fans may not be interested in what looks like a family film. The marketing seems unsure which audience demographic to target the PG-13 rated film. Playing in 3525 theaters, Jack the Giant Slayer may knock down $27 million.
The R-rated raunchy comedy 21 and Over [21OVR] follows three college guys as they celebrate a 21st birthday by going on a bender like The Hangover. Appropriately, the film comes from the writers of The Hangover as Relativity has made clear in its marketing campaign. Miles Teller [MTELL] also appeared in the similar themed Project X, which earned $21 million on this weekend last year. While its commercials have been funny, 21 and Over has not exceed the buzz created by Project X. Opening in 2771 theaters, 21 and Over could drink up $16 million.
The found footage film The Last Exorcism was a surprise hit for Lionsgate, debuting in 2010 with $20.4 million. CBS Films is releasing the sequel The Last Exorcism Part II [LXOR2], which takes the form of a traditional horror narrative. Although the original had poor word of mouth, there might be enough fans of PG-13 rated demonic possession to bring in $10 million from 2700 locations.
Identity Thief [IDTHF] will give up the top spot for a second time, but should cross the century milestone with another $9.0 million. Snitch [SNITC], which was more drama than action, may drop 45% in its second weekend to $7 million.
Ed Harris [EHARR] stars in the submarine thriller Phantom [PHTOM]. RCR distribution is releasing the R-rated film in 2000+ theaters despite little marketing and non-existent buzz. Phantom may be lucky to hit $2 million.
That’s the whisper from the virtual trading floor.
Tag(s): JACGK, NHOUL, BSING, 21OVR, MTELL, LXOR2, IDTHF, SNITC, EHARR, PHTOM