Even though it was panned by film critics, especially New York Observer’s Rex Reed, “Identity Thief” was able to easily take away the number one spot from last weekend’s champion, “Warm Bodies.” According to Box Office Mojo, the R-rated comedy took in $36.5 million during the Feb. 8-10 weekend, exceeding analysts’ expectations by about $10 million.
This weekend’s box office was expected to be a slow one, following the impact of the winter storm known as Nemo that hit the East Coast, resulting in closures of AMC and Regal Theatres in New England on Friday and Saturday.
If it wasn’t for the storm, “Identity Thief” might have ended up grossing $40 million, Universal’s head of distribution Nikki Rocco said in an interview with TheWrap.com.
“The marketing campaign was on the money and audiences were ready for a real good comedy,” Rocco said.
Audience members felt a comedy was what the doctor ordered, but a psychological thriller was not. Even though it was recommended by 85% of critics on Rotten Tomatoes, “Side Effects” came in third with just $10 million. Rumored as the final theatrical release for director Steven Soderbergh, the film’s all-star cast includes Channing Tatum, Rooney Mara, Jude Law, and Catherine Zeta-Jones.
“Top Gun” fans buckled up and headed to the danger zone this weekend with the IMAX 3D rerelease of Tony Scott’s blockbuster. Playing in just 300 theaters, the film came in 11th place with $1.9 million. It was just short of tying the number 10 film, “Bullet to the Head,” which fell 56% in its second week, bringing in $1.98 million. Its total now stands at $8.1 million.
Last weekend’s champion, “Warm Bodies,” slipped to number two with $11.5 million, bringing its total to $36.6 million.
The top five was rounded out by a Best Picture nominee and a new 3D spin on a classic fairy tale. “Silver Linings Playbook” came in fourth with $6.9 million, bringing its total $90 million. “Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters” came in fifth with $5.7 million, bringing its total to $43.8 million.
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