National Video Rentals : ‘Under Siege’ Anchors Top Spot

“Under Siege” cruised past the opposition, sailing into the top spot of the rental chart. Judging from the retailer reports of big renter demand, the Steven Seagal action film should be anchored at No. 1 for at least a few weeks. The violent “Reservoir Dogs,” starring Harvey Keitel, made a surprisingly strong showing, jumping from No. 38 to No. 16. That’s quite a feat for a movie that was only in limited release and barely registered on the gross-meter--$1.4 million. But strong word-of-mouth and a growing cult status as an unsung low-budget gem have made it a hip must-see in certain circles. Woody Allen’s “Husbands and Wives” should do decent home-video business, reaching those curious about a movie reflecting the headlines. The film, featuring Allen and Mia Farrow as a couple whose relationship crumbles, debuted at No. 18 and could make the Top 10.

Rank Weeks Last on the Week Chart 1. “Under Siege” 4 2 2. “The Last of the Mohicans” 1 6 3. “A League of Their Own” 2 9 4. “Sneakers” 3 8 5. “Honeymoon in Vegas” 5 10 6. “Singles” 6 4 7. “Mr. Saturday Night” 7 3 8. “Captain Ron” 11 3 9. “The Player” 14 2 10. “Death Becomes Her” 9 9 * “Passenger 57” ... 1

* “Passenger 57” is essentially “Under Siege” with a plane instead of ship that’s being hijacked. Wesley Snipes plays the hero in this action-thriller, which grossed a tidy $42.9 million in theaters. “Passenger” boarded the chart at No. 32 but should be a rental smash, despite the competition from top-ranked “Under Siege.”

Source: Billboard Publications Inc.