While the New England Patriots and Atlanta Falcons face-off in the Super Bowl this weekend, two horror films will battle for the box office crown. Reigning Champion Split [SPLIT] has proved to be a powerhouse. After declining just 35% last weekend, Split should drop around 45% this weekend to $14.0 million, which could be enough to a squeeze out a victory.
Paramount attempts to revive a horror series with Rings [RING3]. The third installment comes 12 years after The Ring Two opened at $35 million. However, the new film features a new cast that will need to attract new moviegoers who probably have never seen a VHS videotape. Unfortunately, Rings faces direct competition from Split. Reviews for the PG-13 rated sequel are also embargoed until Friday. Playing in 2931 theaters, Rings may catch $13 million.
A Dog’s Purpose [ADOGP] should be able to hold 60% of its opening for a sophomore session of $11 million.
Asa Butterfield [ABUTT] and Britt Robertson [BROBE] star in teen romance The Space Between Us [OUTTW]. Originally set to open last summer and then Christmas, the PG-13 rated film has been pushed back by STX in search of an audience that may not come. Trailers seem to have been out forever, and also seemingly gives away the whole movie. The Space Between Us may narrow to $8.0 million from 2812 locations.
Like its previous chapters, Resident Evil: The Final Chapter [RESE6] looks to tumble more than 65% in its second weekend to $4.5 million.
After picking up 6 Academy Awards nominations, Lion [LION] expands wide to 1405 theaters. The tear-jerker should be able to locate $3.5 million.
Robert De Niro [RDENI] stars as The Comedian [COMDN]. Sony Pictures Classics could bring in $2.0 million from 848 theaters.
That’s the whisper on the virtual trading floor.
Tag(s): SPLIT, RING3, ADOGP, ABUTT, BROBE, OUTTW, RESE6, LION, RDENI, COMDN