‘Future’ Fades but Still Holds the Lead

Universal’s “Back to the Future Part II,” which toppled box-office records over Thanksgiving with a five-day holiday opening of $43 million, fell more than 70% last weekend but still led the box office with an estimated $12.1 million. The futuristic comedy starring Michael J. Fox and Christopher Lloyd averaged $23,065 per screen over the holiday weekend and dropped to $6,490 per theater last weekend. Warner Brothers’ “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vaction” with Chevy Chase finished No. 2 with $11.7 million.

* Tri-Star’s “Look Who’s Talking” topped the $100-million mark, but dropped to the No. 6 spot after spending seven weeks among the top three. The surprise comedy hit has grossed a total of $101.5 million.

WEEKEND BOX OFFICE

Weekend Gross/ Screens/ Weeks in Movie (Studio) Total (millions) Average Release 1. “Back to the Future Part II” $12.1 1,866 2 (Universal) $60 $6,490 2. “Christmas Vacation” $11.7 1,744 1 (Warner Bros.) $11.7 $6,738 3. “Harlem Nights” $5.2 2,180 3 (Paramount) $42.5 $2,387 4. “Steel Magnolias” $4.8 963 3 (Tri-Star) $22.6 $5,043 5. “The Little Mermaid” $4 999 3 (Disney) $22.1 $4,034 *. “Look Who’s Talking” $3.7 1,649 8 (Tri-Star) $101.5 $2,255

SOURCE: Exhibitor Relations Co.