‘Skyfall’ Shatters James Bond Record, Tops Box Office

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?