This weekend’s new releases did a number on the so-called “box office slump” Friday, delivering impressive grosses that should produce weekend totals ahead of forecasts.
As expected given the strong promotional campaign, appealing leads and pre-Valentine’s Day weekend timing, “The Vow” got off to a phenomenal start Friday, grossing in the $15 million territory Friday, according to industry estimates posted by Deadline.
“Safe House” is not going down without a fight, however. It likely earned about $14 million Friday, and when all is said and done, it will likely join “The Vow” in the $35-42 million territory for the weekend.
The 3D re-release of “Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace” will land in third with about $9 million as it prepares for a weekend in the mid-$20 millions. Surprisingly close-behind, Deadline forecasts, will be “Journey 2: The Mysterious Island.” Though it likely only grossed in the $7 million territory Friday, the family film is expected to pickup steam Saturday and could find itself flirting with a $25 million weekend total.