Jackson’s This Is It Moonwalks To Top Of U.s. Box Office
By WENNMonday, November 2, 2009
MICHAEL JACKSON’s THIS IS IT rehearsal documentary has soared to the top of the U.S. box office, taking $21.3 million (£13.3 million) in its opening weekend (30Oct-01Nov09).
The film, which follows the Thriller legend as he prepared for his ill-fated London concerts, premiered worldwide on Wednesday (28Oct09).
Within five days This Is It has earned a massive $32.5 million (£20.3 million) in the states and $101 million (£63.1 million) worldwide - prompting Sony bosses to extend its run in the U.S. until Thanksgiving weekend (begs27Nov09), and add showtimes in other territories on a country-by-country basis.
However, its success still falls short of last year’s $31.1 million (£19.4 million) U.S. opening weekend for Hannah Montana & Miley Cyrus: Best of Both Worlds Concert.
This Is It bumped low-budget horror film Paranormal Activity from number one to the second spot, with $16.5 million (£10.3 million) in earnings; however, moviegoers proved they were seeking a thrill over the Halloween weekend, helping Jamie Foxx and Gerard Butler’s crime drama Law Abiding Citizen land at number three with $7.3 million (£4.6 million) in earnings.
Rounding out the top five is Vince Vaughn’s comedy Couples Retreat and horror film Saw VI, earning $6.1 million (£3.8 million) and $5.6 million (£3.5 million) respectively.
