After a dull September for new releases, the first week of October brings a real heavyweight contender in the sci-fi actioner Real Steel [RSTEL]. Set in the future where boxing are fought with robots, the PG-13 rated film stars Hugh Jackman [HJACK] as a former boxer who becomes a robot trainer and bonds with his estranged son as they rise through the ranks of the sport. Known for comedies with mass appeal, director Shawn Levy [SLEVY] has brought his crowd-pleasing touch to a new genre. While the concept appeared cheesy when first teaser came out nearly a year ago, the latest trailers and ads have effectively built up buzz amongst moviegoers. On top of that, the reviews have been better than expected. Opening in 3440 theaters and taking most of the IMAX screens, Real Steel could punch out at least $30 million.
Sony targets urbane adults with the political thriller The Ides of March [IDESM]. George Clooney [GCLOO] directed the film and stars with Ryan Gosling [RGOSL], Philip Seymour Hoffman [PSHOF], Paul Giamatti [PGIAM] and many more. Adapted from the play ‘Farragut North’, the R-rated film has garnered great reviews and award buzz on the fall festival circuit. Canvassing 2119 locations, The Ides of March could tally $14 million.
After a brief jump to the top spot, Dolphin Tale [DLPHN] looks to fall back to third place. The family film should stay afloat with another $9 million.
The baseball drama Moneyball [MONYB] looks to bring home $7.5 million during its third weekend
The faith-based drama Courageous [COURG] ended up with the best debut last weekend. Director Alex Kendrick’s previous film Fireproof dropped 42% in its second weekend. A similar rate of decline would put Courageous at $5.5 million.
The cancer dramedy 50/50 [5050] looks to fade 45% to around $5 million, while the value of Dream House [DRMHS] may tumble 60% to $3.5 million.
That’s the whisper from the trading floor.
Tag(s): RSTEL, HJACK, SLEVY, IDESM, GCLOO, RGOSL, PSHOF, PGIAM, DLPHN, MONYB, COURG, 5050, DRMHS