National Video Rentals : ‘Patriot’ Proves Lethal to ‘Weapon’

“Patriot Games” is the surprising rental chart leader, with “Lethal Weapon 3,” a much bigger box-office hit and part of an enormously popular series, still waiting in the wings at No. 2. Some retailers are already reporting that “Lethal Weapon 3” is their top rental but “Patriot Games” is obviously stronger in some markets. The cutesy “Housesitter,” starring rental market favorites Steve Martin and Goldie Hawn, entered at No. 7 but should crack the Top Five next week--replacing “Alien 3”--which is No. 4 and fading. Another strong new Top 10 entry is “Universal Soldier,” shooting up to No. 8 from No. 37. Its big attraction is two action stars, Jean-Claude van Damme and Dolph Lundgren.

“Prelude to a Kiss,” a dark romantic comedy that grossed a mild $20 million and was generally panned by critics, entered at No. 35. Despite the reviews, its stars, Alec Baldwin and Meg Ryan, will attract many renters, probably enough to push it into the Top 10.

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Rank Weeks Last on the Week Chart 1. “Patriot Games” 2 4 2. “Lethal Weapon 3” 6 4 3. “Sister Act” 1 7 4. “Alien3” 3 6 5. “Basic Instinct” 4 10 “Prelude to a Kiss” 6. “Far and Away” 5 6 7. “Housesitter” ... 1 8. “Universal Soldier” 37 3 9. “My Cousin Vinny” 10 12 10. “Encino Man” 11 6

Source: Billboard Publications Inc.