Ridley Scott’s “Exodus” Ends “Hunger Games” Reign
Exodus: Gods and Kings wasn’t exactly a debut of Biblical proportions. This latest retelling of the story of Moses opened in the top spot with an estimated $24.5 million.
The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1 fell from the top spot in its fourth weekend. The sequel pulled in $13.2 million over the weekend. That brings its 24-day total to $277 million. DreamWorks Animation’s Penguins of Madagascar dipped one spot to third with $7.3 million. The animated spin-off is closing in on $60 million in three weeks of release.
Chris Rock comedy, Top Five landed the fourth place spot taking in $7.2 million. Disney’s Big Hero 6 rounded out the top 5. In its sixth weekend, the animated film pulled in another $6.1 million.
Note: These #’s are based on Sunday’s projections and can change with Monday’s actual #’s.
#1 – Exodus: Gods and Kings (NR)
$24.5 million / $24.5 million total
Exodus knocked Mockingjay off the top spot this weekend. But compared to Ridley Scott’s other sword and sandal epics, the Biblical adaptation fell a bit short. Scott’s Gladiator and Robin Hood cleared $34 and $36 million respectively with strong legs following. At $24.5 million, Exodus was even behind this year’s other Biblical films, Son of God ($25.6 million) and Noah ($43.7 million). Mixed reviews and controversial casting won’t help Exodus’ cause either for a leggy haul.
#2 – The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1 (1)
$13.2 million / $277.4 million total
After three weeks on top, the latest Hunger Games film dropped one spot to second. Now in its fourth weekend, Mockingjay is nearly matching Catching Fire frame for frame. Last year’s sequel grossed $13.7 million in this frame. Catching Fire contended with Frozen last year, which slowed the film down a bit. Fortunately, Mockingjay has faced minimal competition. Even newcomer, Exodus: Gods and Kings entered the scene minus the great bang. With a crowded marketplace this coming weekend, Mockingjay will take a sizable hit. That shouldn’t rule out a shot at overtaking Guardians of the Galaxy’s $332 million haul.
#3 – Penguins of Madagascar (2)
$7.3 million / $58.8 million total
Down 33% from last weekend, Penguins of Madagascar pulled in another $7.3 million its third weekend. The DreamWorks Animation film is now performing behind the studio’s 2012 film, Rise of the Guardians. Madagascar doesn’t have the holiday-themed boost Guardians had to creep over the century mark. With some holiday play left, Madagascar will find itself around $80-85 million.
#4 – Top Five (NR)
$7.2 million / $7.2 million total
In just 979 theaters, Chris Rock’s Top Five managed a spot in the top charts. The limited release comedy received high critical reception with an 89% score on Rotten Tomatoes. Despite an expected one-week stay in the top 5, the Rock film should garner some legs over the coming weeks.
#5 –Big Hero 6 (4)
$6.1 million / $185.3 million total
Big Hero 6 joined Gone Girl and Guardians of the Galaxy as 2014 longest stays in the top 5. The Disney animated film dipped 23% last weekend, bringing its total over $185 million. By Christmas, Big Hero 6 will pass Disney’s Wreck-It Ralph’s $193 million. $200 million should come soon after, shortly before the new year. $210 million is still in reach for Baymax and company.
Opening Next Week: The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies (Wednesday), Annie, Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb, Wild (expanding), Mr. Turner (limited)
Source: Box Office Mojo
