Although 2006’s Cars is generally considered one of Pixar’s lesser films, that didn’t stop Disney from producing the sequel Cars 2 [CARS2]. Cars is Disney’s most lucrative brand generating billions annually in merchandising. To keep that gravy train rolling, Lightning and Mater return for a new adventure that takes them around the world in a spy caper. Cars 2 is getting the worst reviews of any Pixar films, but that’s not gonna matter to boys who play with the toys. Though the G-rated film may not appeal to teens as well as adults who frequented previous Pixar offerings. Toy Story 3’s $110 million opening last year is out of reach, but the sequel should improve on Cars’ $60 million debut. Cars 2 should appeal to enough families to drive away with $72 million from 4115 locations.
Sony hopes its R-rated comedy Bad Teacher [BDTCH] follows in the success of this summer’s Bridesmaids and The Hangover Part II. The cast of Cameron Diaz [CDIAZ], Jason Segel [JSEGE] and Justin Timberlake [JTIMB] are all likeable and each brings fans of their own. The trailers and TV spots have been funny, which should bring out moviegoers looking for a laugh. Opening in 3049 theaters, Bad Teacher could earn $24 million.
Green Lantern [GLANT] did not shine as bright as Warner Bros. hoped in its debut. With its opening weekend already frontloaded to Friday, the superhero film is not crossing over to a broader audience. Green Lantern looks to drop more than 55% to about $22 million.
The sci-fi film Super 8 [SUPR8] should be in line for another 60% hold this weekend, which would net another $13 million.
With competition for the family audience from Cars 2, Mr. Popper’s Penguins [POPNG] is likely to drop 50% to around $9 million.
That’s the whisper from the trading floor.
Tag(s): CARS2, BDTCH, CDIAZ, JSEGE, JTIMB, GLANT, SUPR8, POPNG