‘Grinch’ Opening Is Fifth Highest Ever

Universal and Imagine Entertainment’s “Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas” struck green (as in greenbacks) in its opening weekend, grossing $55.1 million. The lavish Brian Grazer-Ron Howard production based on Dr. Seuss’ beloved holiday story was the second-biggest opener of the year and the fifth highest-grossing opener ever. “Grinch,” which was directed by Howard and stars Jim Carrey, is the fifth consecutive No. 1 film for Universal--a modern-day record. Also bringing in families in its first weekend was Paramount’s animated comedy “Rugrats in Paris--The Movie,” which is based on the popular Nickelodeon TV series. A double Arnold Schwarzenegger didn’t double anyone’s pleasure as the action star’s latest vehicle, “The 6th Day,” managed only to place fourth in its debut weekend with $13 million. Last weekend’s other new release, “Bounce,” came in fifth with $11.4 million on 1,198 screens.

Weekend Box Office

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Three-day gross/ Screens/ Weeks in Movie (Studio) Total (millions) Average Release 1. “Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas” $55.1 3,127 1 (Universal) $55.1 $17,611 2. “Rugrats in Paris--The Movie” $22.7 2,934 1 (Paramount) $22.7 $7,743 3. “Charlie’s Angels” $13.4 3,037 3 (Sony/Columbia) $93.3 $4,400 4. “The 6th Day” $13.0 2,516 1 (Sony/Columbia) $13.0 $5,175 5. “Bounce” $11.4 1,918 1 (Miramax) $11.4 $5,956 6. “Men of Honor” $7.9 2,118 2 (Fox) $24.9 $3,733 7. “Little Nicky” $7.8 2,910 2 (New Line) $26.5 $2,664 8. “Meet the Parents” $6.4 2,412 7 (Universal) $138.5 $2,640 9. “Red Planet” $2.8 2,703 2 (Warners) $13.5 $1,043 10. “The Legend of Bagger Vance” $2.8 2,109 3 (DreamWorks) $25.2 $1,336

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SOURCE: Exhibitor Relations Co.