Based on Sunday’s estimates:
1) King Kong: $31.4 million ($118.7 million, second weekend)
We’re still wondering how worms can go all “Deep Rising” on us when there is nothing on that island that is small enough for them to eat. With predators, there must be prey, yes?
2) The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe: $30.1 million ($163.5 million, third weekend)
“Hey, Mouse House, this is God calling. What’s the deal with this overgrown monkey keeping us at #2? You want me to do something about that hobbit Peter Jackson? What? No, I suppose that would only make the movie even bigger. Man, I really want to smite someone, though.”
3) Fun with Dick and Jane: $23.5 million ($31 million, first weekend, Wednesday opening)
Well, there’s a third of the budget back. Only two more thirds to go.
4) Cheaper by the Dozen 2: $14.7 million ($20 million, first weekend, Wednesday opening)
Between this, “The Man,” and the “American Pie” straight-to-video (sorry, “DVD original”) movie, Eugene Levy is fast becoming the Michael Caine/Gene Hackman of the decade.
5) The Family Stone: $10.8 million ($30 million, second weekend)
This looks like a miraculous hold, dropping only 10% from the previous week, but in fact it is a mediocre opening followed by the big Christmas boost.
