After a seven-year run, Lionsgate is ending its annual Halloween tradition of releasing a new installment in its horror franchise. Marketed as the final chapter, Saw 3D [SAW7] also adds an extra-dimension to the R-rated torture series that peaked with Saw III. last year, Saw VI opened with just $14.1 million as Paranormal Activity broke out as the new horror sensation. Saw fans may be tempted back to the 3D film for one last hurrah. By not going head-to head with the Paranormal Activity sequel this time, Saw 3D could slice up $25 million from 2808 theaters.
Horror fans drove the low-budget, starless Paranormal Activity 2 [PNAC2] to the biggest horror opening ever. Frontloaded by its midnight screenings, Paranormal Activity 2 is poised to drop more than 55% to a sophomore haul of around $18 million.
With some 3D screens and its target audience headed for Jigsaw, Jackass 3D [JCKA3] looks to drop more than 50% in its third outing for $10 million.
The geriatric action comedy Red [RED1] has held exceptional well and should bank another $9 million. On the other hand, the afterlife drama Hereafter [HAFTR] may be forgotten soon as bad reviews could drop the second wide weekend around 45% to $7 million.
That’s the whisper from the trading floor.
Tag(s): SAW7, PNAC2, JCKA3, RED1, HAFTR