There is only one new wide release this weekend as other studios appear to fear going up against Tom Cruise [TCRUI]. The action thriller Oblivion [OBLVN] is set in a post-apocalyptic future where mankind has apparently left planet earth. The PG-13 rated Oblivion should appeal to sci-fi fans as Universal has emphasized its similarities to sci-fi films such as The Matrix, Total Recall and even WALL-E. However, the buzz has been mediocre, so it’s unlikely to break out into other demographics. Playing in 3782 theaters, Oblivion could clear $38 million.
The sports drama 42 [42] scored the biggest opening for a baseball film. With excellent word of mouth, the Jackie Robinson biopic will continue to draw from the older target audience. 42 could retain 70% of its opening and knock in another $19 million.
After earning $3.8 million from 514 theaters last week, Focus expands The Places Beyond The Pines [TPBTP] further wide into 1542 theaters. The R-rated saga about fathers and sons star Bradley Cooper [BCOOP] and Ryan Gosling [RGOSL], two of Hollywood’s top leading men. With favorable reviews and word of mouth, The Places Beyond The Pines could rack up another $6 million.
Seven years between sequels proved too long a wait for Scary Movie V [SCAR5]. The horror spoof looks to tumble more than 60% in its second weekend to $5 million.
That’s the whisper from the virtual trading floor.
Tag(s): TCRUI, OBLVN, 42, TPBTP, BCOOP, RGOSL, SCAR5