This weekend Pixar delivers its annual instant classic animated feature and this year Pixar goes back to the franchise that started it all. After enduring a very public battle between Disney and Pixar over the rights to produce the sequel, Toy Story 3 [TOYS3] arrives more than a decade behind the previous installment Toy Story 2. Thankfully, the two companies came together to the relief of everyone. Toy Story 3 finds Woody, Buzz and the rest of Andy’s toys dropped off at a day care center where they encounter new characters while trying to find their way home. As expected, reviews have been outstanding on the G-rated film that wraps up the trilogy. The series has broad demographic appeal from everyone who has grown up with the beloved characters. Opening 4028 theaters with the added boost of 3D screens, Toy Story 3 could launch to $110 million and beyond.
Last weekend’s big winner The Karate Kid [KFKID] should more than hold its own against the new competition. Moviegoers have responded overwhelmingly positive to the remake. The Karate Kid could wear down just 30% from its debut and finish second at around $37 million.
On the other hand, the feature adaptation of The A-Team [ATEAM] was met with a lukewarm reception. The male-oriented actioner is likely to fall close to 50% to $13 million for its second outing.
The weekend’s other new wide release is the western Jonah Hex [JOHEX] based on a comic you have never heard of. Josh Brolin [JBROL] stars as an avenging cowboy with supernatural powers. Megan Fox [MEFOX] co-star in the PG-13 rated film to up its appeal with young males. Even though the marketing campaign had a late start, Warner Bros. has advertised heavily on sporting events. Unfortunately, advance buzz has been low and mostly negative. Jonah Hex may have to settle for a score around $10 million from 2825 theaters.
That’s the whisper from the trading floor.
Tag(s): TOYS3, KFKID, ATEAM, JOHEX, JBROL, MEFOX