A handful of new films open in wide release this weekend and there could be a four-way battle for the box office crown. The mystery thriller Gone Girl [GONEG] enjoys positive word of mouth after its strong debut. The story and its twists will continue to generate water cooler conversations. Gone Girl should hold close to 60% in its second outing and finish with $22 million, which could be enough to repeat at the top spot.
Leading the pack of newcomers looks to be Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day [ATHNG]. The PG-rated family film is based on a 1972 book, which may be too old to retain a fanbase that remains rabid. Steve Carell [SCARE] and Jennifer Garner [JEGAR] are recognizable stars, but the bigger selling point for parents is the Disney brand. Opening in 3088 theaters, Alexander may sum up $19 million.
Universal returns to its monster roots with Dracula Untold [DRCYZ] starring Luke Evans [LUEVA]. The latest revision focuses on the historical figure Vlad the Impaler, who was the inspiration from Bram Stoker’s fictional vampire. More of an action-fantasy than horror, the PG-13 rated film targets the young male demographic that fueled Underworld. Advance ticket sales are actually pacing ahead of Underworld: Awakening’s $25 million. Dracula Untold could suck up $18 million from 2885 locations.
Robert Downey Jr. [RDOWN] toplines the R-rated drama The Judge [JUDGE]. Warner Bros. has put in the marketing money and Downey has worked the promotional trails. However, the formulaic film drew mixed reviews and may only appeal to older adults. Presiding in 3003 theaters, The Judge may hammer out $17 million.
After its better than expected opening, Annabelle [ANABL] is headed for a mighty fall typical of horror. The spin-off of The Conjuring may tumble more than 55% to $16 million.
Lionsgate targets African-American moviegoers with the R-rated erotic thriller Addicted [ADCTD]. The author Zane is an unproven draw, nowhere near the level of Tyler Perry. Playing in 846 theaters, Addicted may steam up $8 million.
That’s the whisper from the virtual trading floor.
Tag(s): GONEG, ATHNG, SCARE, JEGAR, DRCYZ, LUEVA, RDOWN, JUDGE, ANABL, ADCTD