Estimated ticket sales for Friday through Sunday at U.S. and Canadian theaters, according to Hollywood.com. Where available, latest international numbers are also included. Final domestic figures will be released Monday.

1. "Fast & Furious 6," $34.5 million ($75 million international). (Review by The News-Herald's Mark Meszoros: 'Fast & Furious 6 hits the gas for more guilty-pleasure thrills)
2. "Now You See Me," $28.05 million. ($600,000 international). (Review by The AP's Joceyln Noveck: 'Now You See Me' not magical despite great cast)
3. "After Earth," $27 million ($2.6 million international). (Review by The AP's John DeFore: 'After Earth' a disappointing sci-fi tale with Will Smith, son Jaden)
4. (tie) "Epic," $16.4 million ($28.5 million international).
4. (tie) "Star Trek: Into Darkness," $16.4 million ($37.6 million international). (Review by Meszoros: 'Star Trek: Into Darkness' another heavenly slice of new-meets-old sci-fi from director J.J. Abrams)
5. "The Hangover Part III," $15.9 million ($82.3 million international). (Review by Meszoros: 'The Hangover Part III' goes out in surprisingly sober, fairly funny fashion)
6. "Iron Man 3," $8 million ($9.9 million international). (Review by Meszoros: 'Iron Man 3' is strong but has a few more cracks in armor)
7. "The Great Gatsby," $6.3 million ($22.6 million international). (Review by Meszoros: With 'Great Gatsby,' Baz Luhrmann makes up for musical missteps with grand visuals)
8. "Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani," $1.6 million ($900,000 international).
9. "Mud," $1.2 million ($350,000 international). (Review by The AP's Todd McCarthy: Enough of 'Mud' sticks to make it worthwhile)
10. "The Croods," $615,000 ($3.7 million international). (Review by The AP's Christy Lemire: Semi-prehistoric script cliches hurt, don't sink 'The Croods')

— The Associated Press

Estimated ticket sales for Friday through Sunday at U.S. and Canadian theaters, according to Hollywood.com. Where available, latest international numbers are also included. Final domestic figures will be released Monday.

1. "Iron Man 3," $175.3 million ($175.9 million international). (Review by The News-Herald's Mark Meszoros: 'Iron Man 3' is strong but has a few more cracks in armor)
2. "Pain & Gain," $7.6 million. (Review by The Associated Press' David Germain: Director Michael Bay's bombast puts the pain in 'Pain & Gain')
3. "42," $6.2 million. (Review by Germain: '42' a classy but tame telling of Jackie Robinson tale, features fine effort from Harrison Ford)
4. "Oblivion," $5.8 million ($6.5 million international). (Review by Meszoros: 'Oblivion' a solid, brainy sci-fi adventure with stunning visuals a few missteps)
5. "The Croods," $4.2 million ($17.4 million international). (Review by The AP's Christy Lemire: Semi-prehistoric script cliches hurt, don't sink 'The Croods')
6. "The Big Wedding," $3.9 million ($2.5 million international).
7. "Mud," $2.2 million.
8. "Oz the Great and Powerful," $1.8 million. (Review by Lemire: 'Oz the Great and Powerful' a prequel that won't really wow old or new fans)
9. "Scary Movie 5," $1.4 million ($4 million international).
10. "The Place Beyond the Pines," $1.3 million.

— The Associated Press

Estimated ticket sales for Friday through Sunday at U.S. and Canadian theaters, according to Hollywood.com. Where available, latest international numbers are also included. Final domestic figures will be released Monday.

1. "Pain & Gain," $20 million. (Review by The Associated Press' David Germain: Director Michael Bay's bombast puts the pain in 'Pain & Gain')
2. "Oblivion," $17.4 million ($12.8 million international). (Review by The News-Herald's Mark Meszoros: 'Oblivion' a solid, brainy sci-fi adventure with stunning visuals a few missteps)
3. "42," $10.7 million. (Review by Germain: '42' a classy but tame telling of Jackie Robinson tale, features fine effort from Harrison Ford)
4. "The Big Wedding," $7.5 million.
5. "The Croods," $6.6 million ($13.1 million international). (Review by The AP's Christy Lemire: Semi-prehistoric script cliches hurt, don't sink 'The Croods')
6. "G.I. Joe: Retaliation," $3.6 million ($10.2 million international). (Review by Meszoros: 'G.I. Joe: Retaliation' ditches most of original cast Dwayne Johnson, Bruce Willis, loses fight)
7. "Scary Movie 5," $3.5 million ($6.7 million international).
8. "Olympus Has Fallen," $2.8 million ($4.2 million international). (Review by Meszoros: 'Olympus Has Fallen' doesn’t quite crumble from weight of outlandish story, excessive violence)
9. "The Place Beyond the Pines," $2.7 million ($1.1 million international).
10. "Jurassic Park" in 3-D, $2.3 million ($410,000 international). (Review by Meszoros: Release of ‘Jurassic Park’ in 3-D shows it’s no dinosaur)

— From The Associated Press

News-Herald Entertainment Editor Mark Meszoros and Sports Editor Mark Podolski preview the summer movie season, including "Man of Steel," "Star Trek Into Darkness," and "The Great Gatsby."

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Estimated ticket sales for Friday through Sunday at U.S. and Canadian theaters, according to Hollywood.com. Where available, latest international numbers are also included. Final domestic figures will be released Monday.

1. "Oblivion," $38.2 million ($33.7 million international). (Review by The News-Herald's Mark Meszoros: 'Oblivion' a solid, brainy sci-fi adventure with stunning visuals a few missteps)
2. "42," $18 million. (Review by The Associated Press' David Germain: '42' a classy but tame telling of Jackie Robinson tale, features fine effort from Harrison Ford)
3. "The Croods," $9.5 million ($23.4 million international). (Review by The AP's Christy Lemire: Semi-prehistoric script cliches hurt, don't sink 'The Croods')
4. "Scary Movie 5," $6.3 million ($3.5 million international).
5. "G.I. Joe: Retaliation," $5.8 million ($40 million international). (Review by The News-Herald's Mark Meszoros: 'G.I. Joe: Retaliation' ditches most of original cast Dwayne Johnson, Bruce Willis, loses fight)
6. "The Place Beyond the Pines," $4.7 million.
7. "Olympus Has Fallen," $4.5 million ($7.8 million international). (Review by Meszoros: 'Olympus Has Fallen' doesn’t quite crumble from weight of outlandish story, excessive violence)
8. "Evil Dead," $4.1 million ($2.3 million international). (Review by The AP's John DeFore: ‘Evil Dead’ remake should please new, old fans)
9. "Jurassic Park" in 3-D, $4 million ($420,000 international). (Review by Meszoros: Release of ‘Jurassic Park’ in 3-D shows it’s no dinosaur)
10. "Oz the Great and Powerful," $3 million ($1.5 million international). (Review by Lemire: 'Oz the Great and Powerful' a prequel that won’t really wow old or new fans)

— From The Associated Press

Estimated ticket sales for Friday through Sunday at U.S. and Canadian theaters, according to Hollywood.com. Where available, latest international numbers are also included. Final domestic figures will be released Monday.

1. "42," $27.3 million. (Review by The Associated Press' David Germain: '42' a classy but tame telling of Jackie Robinson tale, features fine effort from Harrison Ford)
2. "Scary Movie 5," $15.2 million ($3.5 million international).
3. "The Croods," $13.2 million ($25.5 million international). (Review by The AP's Christy Lemire: Semi-prehistoric script cliches hurt, don't sink 'The Croods')
4. "G.I. Joe: Retaliation," $10.8 million ($15.6 million international). (Review by The News-Herald's Mark Meszoros: 'G.I. Joe: Retaliation' ditches most of original cast Dwayne Johnson, Bruce Willis, loses fight)
5. "Evil Dead," $9.5 million ($2.9 million international). (Review by The AP's John DeFore: ‘Evil Dead’ remake should please new, old fans)
6. "Jurassic Park" in 3-D, $8.8 million ($1.3 million international). (Review by Meszoros: Release of ‘Jurassic Park’ in 3-D shows it’s no dinosaur)
7. "Olympus Has Fallen," $7.3 million. (Review by Meszoros: 'Olympus Has Fallen' doesn’t quite crumble from weight of outlandish story, excessive violence)
8. "Oz the Great and Powerful," $4.9 million ($5.2 million international). (Review by Lemire: 'Oz the Great and Powerful' a prequel that won’t really wow old or new fans)
9. "Tyler Perry's Temptation," $4.5 million.
10. "The Place Beyond the Pines," $4.1 million ($2.2 million international).

— The Associated Press

From The Associated Press:

Estimated ticket sales for Friday through Sunday at U.S. and Canadian theaters, according to Hollywood.com. Where available, latest international numbers are included. Final domestic figures will be released Monday:

1. "Jack the Giant Slayer," $28 million. ($13.7 million international.) (Review by The News-Herald's Mark Meszoros: 'Jack the Giant Slayer' takes us up the beanstalk for a rather boring 3-D adventure)
2. "Identity Thief," $9.7 million. (Review by The Washington Post's Ann Hornaday: 'Identity Thief' squanders comic pairing of McCarthy, Bateman)
3. "21 & Over," $9 million. (Review by The AP's Christy Lemire: '21 & Over' fairly fun all-night rager with ‘Hangover’ roots)
4. "The Last Exorcism Part II," $8 million.
5. "Snitch," $7.7 million. (Review by The AP's Todd McCarthy: 'Snitch' a well-made yarn about drug world)
6. "Escape From Planet Earth," $6.7 million.
7. "Safe Haven," $6.3 million. (Review by The AP's Stephen Farber: 'Safe Haven' is routine romantic thriller)
8. "Silver Linings Playbook," $5.9 million. (Review by Lemire: Charming 'Silver Linings Playbook' has great performances from Bradley Cooper, Jennifer Lawrence)
9. "A Good Day to Die Hard," $4.5 million. ($18.3 million international.) (Review by Meszoros: Willis, Courtney team for ‘A Good Day to Die Hard,’ but it lands softly)
10. "Dark Skies," $3.6 million.

-- Cheryl Sadler | CSadler@News-Herald.com | @nhcheryl

From The Associated Press:

Estimated ticket sales for Friday through Sunday at U.S. and Canadian theaters, according to Hollywood.com. Where available, latest international numbers are included. Final domestic figures will be released Monday.

1. "Identity Thief," $14 million, ($170,000 international). (Review by The Washington Post's Ann Hornaday: 'Identity Thief' squanders comic pairing of McCarthy, Bateman)
2. "Snitch," $13 million. (Review by The AP's Todd McCarthy: 'Snitch' a well-made yarn about drug world)
3. "Escape From Planet Earth," $11 million.
4. "Safe Haven," $10.6 million, ($1.4 million international). (Review by The AP's Stephen Farber: 'Safe Haven' is routine romantic thriller)
5. "A Good Day to Die Hard," $10 million, ($35.7 million international). (Review by The News-Herald's Mark Meszoros: Willis, Courtney team for ‘A Good Day to Die Hard,’ but it lands softly)
6. "Dark Skies," $8.9 million.
7. "Silver Linings Playbook," $6.1 million, ($5 million international). (Review by The AP's Christy Lemire: Charming 'Silver Linings Playbook' has great performances from Bradley Cooper, Jennifer Lawrence)
8. "Warm Bodies," $4.8 million, ($2.5 million international). (Review by The AP's Sheri Linden: Zombie love story 'Warm Bodies' could use more heat)
9. "Side Effects," $3.6 million. (Review by Lemire: Twisty thriller 'Side Effects' recalls Soderbergh's 'sex, lies and videotape')
10. "Beautiful Creatures," $3.4 million, ($4 million international). (Review by Lemire: ‘Beautiful Creatures’ aims to be new ‘Twilight’ by mixing romance with so-so supernatural stuff)

-- Cheryl Sadler | CSadler@News-Herald.com | @nhcheryl

From The Associated Press:

Estimated ticket sales for Friday through Sunday at U.S. and Canadian theaters, according to Hollywood.com. Where available, latest international numbers are also included. Final domestic figures will be released Monday.

1. "Identity Thief," $36.6 million ($230,000 international). (Review by The Washington Post's Ann Hornaday: 'Identity Thief' squanders comic pairing of McCarthy, Bateman)
2. "Warm Bodies," $11.5 million. (Review by The AP's Sheri Linden: Zombie love story 'Warm Bodies' could use more heat)
3. "Side Effects," $10 million. (Review by The AP's Christy Lemire: Twisty thriller 'Side Effects' recalls Soderbergh's 'sex, lies and videotape')
4. "Silver Linings Playbook," $6.9 million. (Review by Lemire: Charming 'Silver Linings Playbook' has great performances from Bradley Cooper, Jennifer Lawrence)
5. "Hansel and Gretel: Witch Hunters," $5.8 million ($11.6 million international).
6. "Mama," $4.3 million ($6.1 million international). (Review by The News-Herald's Mark Meszoros: Luke-warm 'Mama' gets good performances from Chastain and others, ultimately shows us too much)
7. "Zero Dark Thirty," $4 million. (Review by Meszoros: Bin Laden hunted in 'Zero Dark Thirty,' one of year's best films)
8. "Argo," $2.5 million. (Review by Meszoros: With stellar espionage drama 'Argo,' Ben Affleck does it again as director)
9. "Django Unchained," $2.3 million. (Review by Meszoros: With fun, vulgar and violent 'Django Unchained,' Waltz, Tarantino again a terrific tandem)
10. "Bullet to the Head," $2 million. (Review by The AP's Jordan Mintzer: Stallone-powered 'Bullet to the Head' a loud and proud B-movie)

From The Associated Press:

Estimated ticket sales for Friday through Sunday at U.S. and Canadian theaters, according to Hollywood.com. Where available, latest international numbers are also included. Final domestic figures will be released Monday.

1. "Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters," $19 million ($25 million international).
2. "Mama," $12.8 million. (Review by The News-Herald's Mark Meszoros: Luke-warm 'Mama' gets good performances from Chastain and others, ultimately shows us too much)
3. "Silver Linings Playbook," $10 million ($3 million international). (Review by The AP's Christy Lemire: Charming 'Silver Linings Playbook' has great performances from Bradley Cooper, Jennifer Lawrence)
4. "Zero Dark Thirty," $9.8 million ($3.6 million international). (Review by Meszoros: Bin Laden hunted in 'Zero Dark Thirty,' one of year's best films)
5. "Parker," $7 million. (Review by Lemire: Statham does is thing in rather perfunctory 'Parker')
6. "Django Unchained," $5 million ($42.9 million international). (Review by Meszoros: With fun, vulgar and violent 'Django Unchained,' Waltz, Tarantino again a terrific tandem)
7. "Movie 43," $5 million ($2.8 million international).
8. "Gangster Squad," $4.2 million ($6.8 million international). (Review by Meszoros: 'Gangster Squad' gets the job done, if sloppily)
9. "Broken City," $4 million ($500,000 international). (Review by Lemire: Damaged 'Broken City' has Wahlberg, Crowe, Zeta-Jones collecting paychecks)
10. "Les Miserables," $3.9 million ($14 million international). (Review by Meszoros: Director, female stars make 'Les Miserables' a winning adaptation)

-- Cheryl Sadler | CSadler@News-Herald.com | @nhcheryl

From The Associated Press:

Estimated ticket sales for Friday through Sunday at U.S. and Canadian theaters, according to Hollywood.com. Where available, latest international numbers are also included. Final domestic figures will be released Tuesday.

1. "Mama," $28.1 million. (Review by The News-Herald's Mark Meszoros: Luke-warm 'Mama' gets good performances from Chastain and others, ultimately shows us too much)
2. "Zero Dark Thirty," $17.6 million. ($770,000 international.) (Review by Meszoros: Bin Laden hunted in 'Zero Dark Thirty,' one of year's best films)
3. "Silver Linings Playbook," $11.4 million. ($700,000 international.) (Review by The AP's Christy Lemire: Charming 'Silver Linings Playbook' has great performances from Bradley Cooper, Jennifer Lawrence)
4. "Gangster Squad," $9.1 million. ($5.7 million international.) (Review by Meszoros: 'Gangster Squad' gets the job done, if sloppily)
5. "Broken City," $9 million. (Review by Lemire: Damaged 'Broken City' has Wahlberg, Crowe, Zeta-Jones collecting paychecks)
6. "A Haunted House," $8.3 million. ($1.6 million international.)
7. "Django Unchained," $8.2 million. ($48.1 million international.) (Review by Meszoros: With fun, vulgar and violent 'Django Unchained,' Waltz, Tarantino again a terrific tandem)
8. "Les Miserables," $7.8 million. ($19.4 million international.) (Review by Meszoros: Director, female stars make 'Les Miserables' a winning adaptation)
9. "The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey," $6.4 million. ($13.2 million international.) (Review by Meszoros: 'The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey' has familiar ring to it)
10. "The Last Stand," $6.3 million. ($1.3 million international.) (Review by Lemire: Schwarzenegger's 'The Last Stand' a surprisingly fun action romp)

Wonder what's coming to theaters this year? Check out Mark Meszoros' 2013 movie preview.


-- Cheryl Sadler | CSadler@News-Herald.com | @nhcheryl

Wondering if I should see "Zero Dark Thirty," even though I think it sounds like a sequel to "Threat Level Midnight."  Any reviews or recommendations?

From The Associated Press:

Estimated ticket sales for Friday through Sunday at U.S. and Canadian theaters, according to Hollywood.com. Where available, latest international numbers are also included. Final domestic figures will be released Monday.
1. "Zero Dark Thirty," $24 million ($1.2 million international). (Review by The News-Herald's Mark Meszoros: Bin Laden hunted in 'Zero Dark Thirty,' one of year's best films)
2. "A Haunted House," $18.8 million.
3. "Gangster Squad," $16.7 million ($9.1 million international). (Review by Meszoros: 'Gangster Squad' gets the job done, if sloppily)
4. "Django Unchained," $11 million. (Review by Meszoros: With fun, vulgar and violent 'Django Unchained,' Waltz, Tarantino again a terrific tandem)
5. "Les Miserables," $10.1 million ($25.5 million international). (Review by Meszoros: Director, female stars make 'Les Miserables' a winning adaptation)
6. "The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey," $9 million ($26.1 million international). (Review by Meszoros: 'The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey' has familiar ring to it)
7. "Lincoln," $6.3 million. (Review by Meszoros: 'Lincoln,' powered by Daniel Day-Lewis' portrayal, engrossingly brings to life crucial bit of presidential history)
8. "Parental Guidance," $6.1 million ($4.6 million international). (Review by The AP's Michael Rechtshaffen: You can go only so wrong with 'Parental Guidance')
9. "Texas Chainsaw 3-D," $5.1 million ($1.2 million international). (Review by The AP's Frank Schenk: 'Chainsaw' loving homage to '74 original)
10. "Silver Linings Playbook," $5 million. (Review by The AP's Christy Lemire: Charming 'Silver Linings Playbook' has great performances from Bradley Cooper, Jennifer Lawrence)

-- Cheryl Sadler | CSadler@News-Herald.com | @nhcheryl

From The Associated Press:

Estimated ticket sales for Friday through Sunday at U.S. and Canadian theaters, according to Hollywood.com. Where available, latest international numbers are also included. Final domestic figures will be released Monday.
1. "Texas Chainsaw 3-D," $23 million. (Review by The AP's Frank Schenk: 'Chainsaw' loving homage to '74 original)
2. "Django Unchained," $20.1 million. (Review by The News-Herald's Mark Meszoros: With fun, vulgar and violent 'Django Unchained,' Waltz, Tarantino again a terrific tandem)
3. "The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey," $17.5 million ($57.1 million international). (Review by Meszoros: 'The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey' has familiar ring to it)
4. "Les Miserables," $16.1 million ($14.5 million international). (Review by Meszoros: Director, female stars make 'Les Miserables' a winning adaptation)
5. "Parental Guidance," $10.1 million. (Review by The AP's Michael Rechtshaffen: You can go only so wrong with 'Parental Guidance')
6. "Jack Reacher," $9.3 million ($22.3 million international). (Review by The AP's Christy Lemire: In twisty thriller 'Reacher,' Tom Cruise oozes low-key charisma)
7. "This Is 40," $8.6 million. (Review by Lemire: Apatow's latest comedy, 'This Is 40,' shows growth, reunited Rudd, Mann)
8. "Lincoln," $5.3 million. (Review by Meszoros: 'Lincoln,' powered by Daniel Day-Lewis' portrayal, engrossingly brings to life crucial bit of presidential history)
9. "The Guilt Trip," $4.5 million. (Review by The AP's Todd McCarthy: ‘Guilt Trip’ a flick only a mother (or Streisand fan) could love)
10. "Promised Land," $4.3 million.

-- Cheryl Sadler | CSadler@News-Herald.com | @nhcheryl

From The Associated Press:

Estimated ticket sales for Friday through Sunday at U.S. and Canadian theaters, according to Hollywood.com. Where available, latest international numbers are also included. Final domestic figures will be released Monday.
1. "The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey," $32.9 million ($106.5 million international). (Review by The News-Herald's Mark Meszoros: 'The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey' has familiar ring to it)
2."Django Unchained," $30.7 million. (Review by Meszoros: With fun, vulgar and violent 'Django Unchained,' Waltz, Tarantino again a terrific tandem)
3."Les Miserables," $28 million ($38.3 million international). (Review by Meszoros: Director, female stars make 'Les Miserables' a winning adaptation)
4."Parental Guidance," $14.8 million ($7 million international). (Review by The AP's Michael Rechtshaffen: You can go only so wrong with 'Parental Guidance')
5."Jack Reacher," $14 million ($18.1 million). (Review by The AP's Christy Lemire: In twisty thriller 'Reacher,' Tom Cruise oozes low-key charisma)
6."This Is 40," $13.2 million. (Review by Lemire: Apatow's latest comedy, 'This Is 40,' shows growth, reunited Rudd, Mann)
7."Lincoln," $7.5 million. (Review by Meszoros: 'Lincoln,' powered by Daniel Day-Lewis' portrayal, engrossingly brings to life crucial bit of presidential history)
8."The Guilt Trip," $6.7 million. (Review by McCarthy: ‘Guilt Trip’ a flick only a mother (or Streisand fan) could love)
9."Monsters, Inc. 3-D," $6.4 million.
10."Rise of the Guardians," $4.9 million ($11.6 million). (Review by The AP's Todd McCarthy: Animated 'Rise of the Guardians' overly busy, should appeal to kids)

-- Cheryl Sadler | CSadler@News-Herald.com | @nhcheryl

From The Associated Press:

Estimated ticket sales for Friday through Sunday at U.S. and Canadian theaters, according to Hollywood.com. Where available, latest international numbers are also included. Final domestic figures will be released Monday.

1. "The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey," $36.7 million ($91 million international). (Review by The News-Herald's Mark Meszoros: 'The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey' has familiar ring to it)
2. "Jack Reacher," $15.6 million ($2.5 million international). (Review by The AP's Christy Lemire: In twisty thriller 'Reacher,' Tom Cruise oozes low-key charisma)
3. "This Is 40," $12 million. (Review by Lemire: Apatow's latest comedy, 'This Is 40,' shows growth, reunited Rudd, Mann)
4. "Rise of the Guardians," $5.9 million ($13.7 million international). (Review by The AP's Todd McCarthy: Animated 'Rise of the Guardians' overly busy, should appeal to kids)
5. "Lincoln," $5.6 million. (Review by Meszoros: 'Lincoln,' powered by Daniel Day-Lewis' portrayal, engrossingly brings to life crucial bit of presidential history)
6. "The Guilt Trip," $5.4 million. (Review by McCarthy: ‘Guilt Trip’ a flick only a mother (or Streisand fan) could love)
7. "Monsters, Inc." in 3-D, $5 million.
8. "Skyfall," $4.7 million ($9 million international). (Review by Meszoros: New Bond film 'Skyfall' almost lives up to all that buzz)
9. "Life of Pi," $3.8 million ($23.2 million international). (Review by The AP's David Germain: Ang Lee's 'Life of Pi' is inspiring 3-D art)
10. "The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn — Part 2," $2.6 million ($6.6 million international). (Review by Meszoros: 'Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn — Part 2,' although still painful for non Twi-hards, has welcome sense of humor)

-- Cheryl Sadler | CSadler@News-Herald.com | @nhcheryl

How well did "The Hobbit" do in its first weekend at the box office? It made nearly 11.5 times what second-place finisher "Rise of the Guardians" pulled in. The Associated Press reports that its $84.8 million was "a record-setting opening better than the three previous "Lord of the Rings" films."

From The AP:

Estimated ticket sales for Friday through Sunday at U.S. and Canadian theaters, according to Hollywood.com. Where available, latest international numbers are also included. Final domestic figures will be released Monday.

1. "The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey," $84.8 million ($138.2 million international). (Review by The News-Herald's Mark Meszoros: 'The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey' has familiar ring to it)
2. "Rise of the Guardians," $7.4 million ($20.1 million international). (Review by The AP's Todd McCarthy: Animated 'Rise of the Guardians' overly busy, should appeal to kids)
3. "Lincoln," $7.2 million. (Review by Meszoros: 'Lincoln,' powered by Daniel Day-Lewis' portrayal, engrossingly brings to life crucial bit of presidential history)
4. "Skyfall," $7 million ($12.2 million international). (Review by Meszoros: New Bond film 'Skyfall' almost lives up to all that buzz)
5. "Life of Pi," $5.4 million ($11.5 million international). (Review by The AP's David Germain: Ang Lee's 'Life of Pi' is inspiring 3-D art)
6. "The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn, Part 2," $5.2 million ($13 million international). (Review by Meszoros: 'Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn — Part 2,' although still painful for non Twi-hards, has welcome sense of humor)
7. "Wreck-It Ralph," $3.3million ($4.7 million international). (Review by The AP's Justin Lowe: Animated 'Wreck-It Ralph' has fun celebrating video games old and new)
8. "Playing for Keeps," $3.2 million ($1.4 million international). (Review by The AP's Christy Lemire: Gerard Butler stars in rom-com 'Playing for Keeps,' one of year's worst movies)
9. "Red Dawn," $2.4 million. (Review by Meszoros: 'Red Dawn' remake falters, despite solid effort by star Chris Hemsworth)
10. "Silver Linings Playbook," $2 million ($370,000 international). (Review by Lemire: Charming 'Silver Linings Playbook' has great performances from Bradley Cooper, Jennifer Lawrence)

-- Cheryl Sadler | CSadler@News-Herald.com | @nhcheryl

James Bond and some animated characters have overtaken the vampires at the weekend box office. Have all the Twi-hards seen "Breaking Dawn" already?

From The Associated Press:

Estimated ticket sales for Friday through Sunday at U.S. and Canadian theaters, according to Hollywood.com. Where available, latest international numbers are also included. Final domestic figures will be released Monday.
1. "Skyfall," $11 million ($20.3 million). (Review by The News-Herald's Meszoros: New Bond film 'Skyfall' almost lives up to all that buzz)
2. "Rise of the Guardians," $10.5 million ($26 million international). (Review by The AP's Todd McCarthy: Animated 'Rise of the Guardians' overly busy, should appeal to kids)
3. "The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn — Part 2," $9.2 million ($23.5 million international). (Review by Meszoros: 'Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn — Part 2,' although still painful for non Twi-hards, has welcome sense of humor)
4. "Lincoln," $9.1 million. (Review by Meszoros: 'Lincoln,' powered by Daniel Day-Lewis' portrayal, engrossingly brings to life crucial bit of presidential history)
5. "Life of Pi," $8.3 million ($23.8 million international). (Review by The AP's David Germain: Ang Lee's 'Life of Pi' is inspiring 3-D art)
6. "Playing for Keeps," $6 million ($500,000 international). (Review by The AP's Christy Lemire: Gerard Butler stars in rom-com 'Playing for Keeps,' one of year's worst movies)
7. "Wreck-It Ralph," $4.9 million ($5.8 million international). (Review by The AP's Justin Lowe: Animated 'Wreck-It Ralph' has fun celebrating video games old and new)
8. "Red Dawn," $4.3 million. (Review by Meszoros: 'Red Dawn' remake falters, despite solid effort by star Chris Hemsworth)
9. "Flight," $3.1 million. (Review by Meszoros: 'Flight' directed right into the ground by Robert Zemeckis)
10. "Killing Them Softly," $2.7 million ($1.4 million international). (Review by Lemire: Brad Pitt’s strong in ‘Killing Them Softly,’ but crime drama lacks subtlety)

-- Cheryl Sadler | CSadler@News-Herald.com | @nhcheryl

A weaker weekend at the box office keeps the last in the "Twilight" series at the top of the box office, but not by much.

From The Associated Press:

Estimated ticket sales for Friday through Sunday at U.S. and Canadian theaters, according to Hollywood.com. Where available, latest international numbers are also included. Final domestic figures will be released Monday.

1. "The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn — Part 2," $17.4 million ($48.4 million international) (Review by The News-Herald's Mark Meszoros: 'Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn — Part 2,' although still painful for non Twi-hards, has welcome sense of humor)
2. "Skyfall," $17 million ($34 million international). (Review by Meszoros: New Bond film 'Skyfall' almost lives up to all that buzz)
3. "Lincoln," $13.51 million. (Review by Meszoros: 'Lincoln,' powered by Daniel Day-Lewis' portrayal, engrossingly brings to life crucial bit of presidential history)
4. "Rise of the Guardians," $13.5 million ($40 million international). (Review by The AP's Todd McCarthy: Animated 'Rise of the Guardians' overly busy, should appeal to kids)
5. "Life of Pi," $12 million ($21.5 million international). (Review by The AP's David Germain: Ang Lee's 'Life of Pi' is inspiring 3-D art)
6. "Wreck-It Ralph," $7.02 million ($1.5 million international). (Review by The AP's Justin Lowe: Animated 'Wreck-It Ralph' has fun celebrating video games old and new)
7. "Killing Them Softly," $7 million ($700,000 international). (Review by The AP's Christy Lemire: Brad Pitt’s strong in ‘Killing Them Softly,’ but crime drama lacks subtlety)
8. "Red Dawn," $6.6 million ($500,000 international). (Review by Meszoros: 'Red Dawn' remake falters, despite solid effort by star Chris Hemsworth)
9. "Flight," $4.5 million. (Review by Meszoros: 'Flight' directed right into the ground by Robert Zemeckis)
10. "The Collection," $3.4 million.

-- Cheryl Sadler | CSadler@News-Herald.com | @nhcheryl

The last installment in the "Twilight" series had another strong weekend at the box office — as did "Skyfall" and "Lincoln." Actually, "Rise of the Guardians" fared pretty well (at least, it seems that way, after the mediocre review I read). What movie did you see this holiday weekend?

From The Associated Press:

Estimated ticket sales for Friday through Sunday at U.S. and Canadian theaters, according to Hollywood.com. Where available, latest international numbers are also included. Final domestic figures will be released Monday.
1. "The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn — Part 2," $43.1 million ($97.4 million international). (Review by The News-Herald's Mark Meszoros: 'Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn — Part 2,' although still painful for non Twi-hards, has welcome sense of humor)
2. "Skyfall," $36 million ($41.3 million international). (Review by Meszoros: New Bond film 'Skyfall' almost lives up to all that buzz)
3. "Lincoln," $25 million. (Review by Meszoros: 'Lincoln,' powered by Daniel Day-Lewis' portrayal, engrossingly brings to life crucial bit of presidential history)
4. "Rise of the Guardians," $24 million ($10 million international). (Review by The AP's Todd McCarthy: Animated 'Rise of the Guardians' overly busy, should appeal to kids)
5. "Life of Pi," $22 million ($17.5 million international) (Review by The AP's David Germain: Ang Lee's 'Life of Pi' is inspiring 3-D art)
6. "Wreck-It Ralph," $16.8 million ($2.1 million international). (Review by The AP's Justin Lowe: Animated 'Wreck-It Ralph' has fun celebrating video games old and new)
7. "Red Dawn," $14.6 million. (Review by Meszoros: 'Red Dawn' remake falters, despite solid effort by star Chris Hemsworth)
8. "Flight," $8.6 million ($723,000 international). (Review by Meszoros: 'Flight' directed right into the ground by Robert Zemeckis)
9. "Silver Linings Playbook," $4.6 million ($1.6 million international). (Review by The AP's Christy Lemire: Charming 'Silver Linings Playbook' has great performances from Bradley Cooper, Jennifer Lawrence)
10. "Argo," $3.9 million ($6 million international). (Review by Meszoros: With stellar espionage drama 'Argo,' Ben Affleck does it again as director)

-- Cheryl Sadler | CSadler@News-Herald.com | @nhcheryl

No surprise here: "The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn — Part 2" came in first at the weekend box office. It raked in $100 million more than "Skyfall," which came in second. Pretty impressive numbers. How long will it stay on top?

From The Associated Press:

Estimated ticket sales for Friday through Sunday at U.S. and Canadian theaters, according to Hollywood.com. Where available, latest international numbers are also included. Final domestic figures will be released Monday.
1. "The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn — Part 2," $141.3 million ($199.6 million international). (Review by The News-Herald's Mark Meszoros: 'Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn — Part 2,' although still painful for non Twi-hards, has welcome sense of humor)
2. "Skyfall," $41.5 million ($49.6 million international). (Review by Meszoros: New Bond film 'Skyfall' almost lives up to all that buzz)
3. "Lincoln," $21 million. (Review by Meszoros: 'Lincoln,' powered by Daniel Day-Lewis' portrayal, engrossingly brings to life crucial bit of presidential history)
4. "Wreck-It Ralph," $18.3 million ($4.8 million international). (Review by The AP's Justin Lowe: Animated 'Wreck-It Ralph' has fun celebrating video games old and new)
5. "Flight," $8.6 million ($1 million international). (Review by Meszoros: 'Flight' directed right into the ground by Robert Zemeckis)
6. "Argo," $4.1 million ($8.7 million international). (Review by Meszoros: With stellar espionage drama 'Argo,' Ben Affleck does it again as director)
7. "Taken 2," $2.1 million ($2 million international). (Review by Meszoros: Liam Neeson helps make 'Taken 2' another guilty pleasure)
8. "Pitch Perfect," $1.3 million ($4.1 million international). (Review by The AP's Christy Lemire: Anna Kendrick helps make 'Pitch Perfect' infectiously catchy)
9. "Here Comes the Boom," $1.2 million ($2.5 million international).
10 (tie). "Cloud Atlas," $900,000 ($5 million international). (Review by Meszoros: 'Cloud Atlas' ambitious, mostly satisfying epic with strong work from Tom Hanks, Halle Berry)
10 (tie). "Hotel Transylvania," $900,000 ($7.8 million international). (Review by The AP's Michael Rechtshaffen: 'Hotel Transylvania' is frighteningly unfunny stuff)
10 (tie). "The Sessions," $900,000.

-- Cheryl Sadler | CSadler@News-Herald.com | @nhcheryl