As one prestige film expands wide this weekend, four other new films are hoping to just survive what looks to be a bloodbath at the box office. After earning $2.5 million through two weeks of limited release in NY and LA, Steve Jobs [SJOBS] goes nationwide into 2493 theaters. Will Middle America be as receptive to the unorthodox biopic of the late Apple founder? Universal hopes the excellent reviews have helped spread the word of mouth. The Social Network about Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg debuted to $22.4 million. However, that film depicted more recent events, whereas Steve Jobs looks back to the 1980s and 90s. Steve Jobs may settle for $16 million.
Summit targets young males with the PG-13 rated The Last Witch Hunter [TLWH]. Unfortunately, the fantasy actioner looks cliché and generic. Vin Diesel [VDIES] has not drawn moviegoers when he’s not Dominic Toretto. Riddick opened to $19 million during September of 2013. The Last Witch Hunter may catch $15 million from 3082 locations.
The family-friendly Goosebumps [GBUMP] should hold 55% of its opening weekend for $13 million.
Paramount is marketing Paranormal Activity: Ghost Dimension [PNAC5] as the finale in the series. The previous installment, Paranormal Activity: The Marked Ones debuted in January 2014 with $18.3 million, but was poorly received. Even with the addition of 3D, Ghost Dimension will likely suffer a decline from sequel fatigue. Playing in only 1656 theaters, Paranormal Activity: Ghost Dimension may go out with $12 million.
Attracting older adults, Bridge of Spies [CLDWR] should drop less than 40% in its sophomore session to $9 million.
Bill Murray [BMURR] toplines the R-rated comedy Rock the Kasbah [KASBA]. Although Open Road has cut funny trailers, the actual film has been savaged by critics. Facing tough competition for adult fares, Rock the Kasbah may chart with just $5 million from 2012 locations.
Jem and the Holograms [JEMHG] bears so little resemblance to its 1980s namesake cartoon that it has alienated most of its adult female fans. The PG-rated will only appeal to young girls who don’t remember Josie and the Pussycats. Opening in 2413 theaters, Jem and the Holograms could break $4 million.
That’s the whisper from the virtual trading floor.
Tag(s): SJOBS, TLWH, VDIES, GBUMP, PNAC5, CLDWR, BMURR, KASBA, JEMHG