The box office battle between “Dinner for Schmucks” and “Inception” will be as hot as anticipated this weekend, as both films now possess a realistic shot at landing first.
“Schmucks” did not receive glowing reviews, but its appealing cast and director led it to an $8.4 million take Friday, enough for first place for the day.
“Inception,” meanwhile, grabbed $8.2 million and should be on track for a $25 million weekend. Though in second place as of this writing, if new release “Schmucks” loses any of its momentum, “Inception” will be able to claim a third straight weekend.
Elsewhere, new release “Charlie St. Cloud” earned $5.6 million for fourth place behind the $5.9 million for “Salt.” While the “St. Cloud” gross puts the film slightly above projections, Deadline reports that rival studios are claiming the first-day audience was largely comprised of Zac Efron-diehards and that the film will now show much in the longevity department.
“Cats & Dogs: The Revenge of Kitty Galore” bombed with $4.2 million, landing behind “Despicable Me” ($4.6 million).