Even though Apocalypto was the #1 hit this weekend, it still opened with modest earnings. The film, which is set in the Mayan civilization, opened with $14.2 million. Compared with director Mel Gibson’s 2004 The Passion of the Christ release, which opened with $83.8 million, this new film didn’t quite match up.
Despite Gibson’s infamous anti-Semitic remarks, it looks like Apocalypto is doing surprisingly well. According to Chuck Viane, the head of Disney distribution, the film is doing well because the film is well-made.
Viane stated, “The movie obviously succeeds on its own level. I think people probably are a bit on the surprised side around town that it’s No. 1.”
“Two months ago, nobody would have bet on that.” Yep, that would have been me too.
The Holiday came in at No. 2, debuting at $13.5 million. The Nancy Meyers-directed film stars Cameron Diaz, Kate Winslet, Jack Black & Jude Law. Here’s the rest of the scoop on the box office this weekend:
1. “Apocalypto,” $14.2 million.
2. “The Holiday,” $13.5 million.
3. “Happy Feet,” $12.7 million.
4. “Casino Royale,” $8.8 million.
5. “Blood Diamond,” $8.5 million.
6. “Unaccompanied Minors,” $6.2 million.
7. “Deja Vu,” $6.1 million.
8. “The Nativity Story,” $5.6 million.
9. “Deck the Halls,” $3.9 million.
10. “The Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause,” $3.3 million.
You tell me- Which order would these films go in, according to your taste?
{Source}