EARLY BOX OFFICE ESTIMATES: The last weekend of Summer Films was a laborious one at best. George Clooney and 'The American' hit the bulls-eye over an able field of newcomers, but first numbers are tepid. And, despite Internet heat, Robert Rodriguez's 'Machete' was cut down into a third place debut for now.
The final countdown to summer's end at the box office is something of a whimper. Again, some major Hollywood firepower failed to court strong audience interest. Still, perception is key and that means George Clooney is still a viable player as "The American" led the Weekend Final Five. Clooney controlled a modest Labor Day weekend with $13 million. So far, the international thriller has tallied since $16.1M since its Wednesday debut.
Dropping to second place was last week's champ "Takers," which rang up another $11.5M which helped bring its overall total to $37.9M after two weekends.
Meanwhile, Robert Rodriguez's "Machete," which cut a wide path with intense promotion in the US (and a well-received appearance at the Venice Film Festival), may be facing an uphill battle. Despite winning its Friday night debut, "Machete" started to trail "The American" and may actually debut father back in third place if current estimates hold. The so-called "Mexploitation" actioner starring Danny Trejo and Jessica Alba earned $11.3M.
Possessing fourth place was "The Last Exorcism," which conjured up another $7.6M for an overall gross of $32.3M after two sessions. And, the Drew Barrymore-Justin Long pairing in "Going the Distance" doesn't look like it's going anywhere. The rom com landed in fifth place with a so-so $6.9M.
Check this space for updates as estimates are confirmed by Deadline.com and Box Office Mojo as both films could switch places by tomorrow.
Fall will kick off with a 3D bang as "Resident Evil: Afterlife" breathes some much needed life into the box office. Can this new dimension of the blockbuster Milla Jovovich-led action franchise kick some serious a**? Find out next weekend in Examiner.
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