Universal pairs up two of the hottest comedians in the PG-13 rated Night School [NTSCH]. Kevin Hart [KHART] and Tiffany Haddish [THADD] have consistently delivered their fanbase to the box office. Advance ticket sales are pacing ahead of Central Intelligence and Ride Along 2, both of which debuted at more than $35 million. However, Night School is opening during fall as opposed to summer and MLK Jr. weekend. Booked in 3010 theaters, Night School could score $32 million.
Smallfoot [SMLFT] is the second non-LEGO animated film from Warner Animation Group after Storks, which opened with $21.3 million in September of 2016. Smallfoot boasts slightly brighter starpower, which should attract a bigger crowd. Arriving in 4131 theaters, Smallfoot could uncover $26 million.
The family-friendly The House with a Clock on its Walls [THWCW] looks to hold around 55% of its opening and chime in with another $15 million.
Hellfest [HELFS] has an interesting premise that provides an easy hook for R-rated horror fans. However, Lionsgate has withheld reviews, which indicates poor buzz. Opening in 2297 theaters, Hellfest could admit $10 million.
Pure Flix targets the faith-based crowd with a modern retelling of the Louisa May Alcott classic Little Women [LITWM]. The PG-13 rated drama could secure $2.0 million from 643 theaters.
That’s the whisper on the virtual trading floor.
Tag(s): NTSCH, KHART, THADD, SMLFT, THWCW, HELFS, LITWM