James Bond can still bring in a crowd. The 23rd installment in the franchise, Skyfall, had the most successful opening weekend in 007’s history.
According to USA Today , Skyfall broke the box office record set by Quantum of Solace in 2008. Quantum of Solace brought in $68 million during its opening weekend. The latest movie shattered that record with a weekend haul of $87.8 million.
According to Box Office Mojo , Skyfall is set to become the highest grossing Bond film in history. The movie has already grossed more than $346 million worldwide and is expected to surpass the $594 million earned by Casino Royale in the next few weeks.
David Mumpower, an analyst for Boxofficeprophets.com , said:
“(Skyfall ‘s opening goes) a long way in determining the relevance of James Bond after a four-year absence. (The movie’s box office results have) removed all doubt about the drawing power of 007.”
In addition to its record-breaking box office, Skyfall has also seen great reviews. The movie currently has a 92% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and is being hailed as one of the best Bond films.
Disney’s Wreck-It-Ralph finished second at the box office this weekend. The animated cartoon starring John C. Reilly racked up$33.1 million to beat out Denzel Washington’s new movie, Flight. Argo maintained its spot in the top five by taking $6.8 million and Taken 2 brought in $4 million.
Stephen Spielberg’s Lincoln brought in close to $1 million over the weekend during its limited release. Lincoln opened on just 11 theaters this weekend. It should be a strong contender when it opens nationwide next weekend.
Unfortunately for Lincoln and Skyfall, next weekend’s box office winner has already been chosen. The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn, Part 2 opens next Friday and is expected to be another major success.
Have you seen Skyfall?