After a few uneventful weekends at the box office, Hollywood is back in force with four new wide releases. The number one position looks to come down to a battle between a reliable comedic star and a new kid on the scene. Adam Sandler [ASAND] has been a consistent draw for over a decade delivering $100 million grossers with $30 million plus openings. His latest PG-13 rated comedy Just Go With It [JGWIT] gets additional starpower from Jennifer Aniston [JANIS]. Sony’s marketing has been split between playing up the romantic comedy to women and featuring swimsuit model Brooklyn Decker for men. Opening in 3548 theaters, Just Go With It may deliver about $32 million.
Justin Bieber: Never Say Never [JBI3D] could challenge for the top spot if Bieber fever reaches the level of Hannah Montana & Miley Cyrus, which debuted with $31.1 million. The 3D documentary/concert film looks to bring out his legion of tween fans as well as religious parents receptive to his inspirational story. Breaking into 3105 theaters, Justin Bieber could attain $27 million.
Disney is releasing the 3D animated Gnomeo & Juliet [GNOME] just ahead of Valentine’s Day. The G-rated adaptation of the Shakespeare romance hopes to appeal to family audience with children too young to care about Justin Bieber. Gnomeo & Juliet could bring in $14 million from 2994 locations.
Channing Tatum [CTATU] stars in the action adventure The Eagle [EAGLN] set in Roman times. The PG-13 rated film doesn’t offer anything new in the genre and should attract a predominantly male audience. Marching into 2296 theaters, The Eagle may tally $8 million.
With all the competition from newcomers, last weekend’s top film The Roommate [RMATE] looks to fall more than 50% to around $7 million.
That’s the whisper from the trading floor.
Tag(s): ASAND, JGWIT, JANIS, JBI3D, GNOME, CTATU, EAGLN, RMATE
