‘The Time Machine’ Lands at No. 1 With $22.5 Million

It was back to the future at the box office over the weekend as a new adaptation of the science-fiction classic “The Time Machine” opened in first place, according to studio estimates Sunday.

The movie, based on the 1895 book by science-fiction master H.G. Wells and directed by Wells’ great-grandson, Simon Wells, took in an estimated $22.5 million from Friday through Sunday.

“This is a very strong opening, since only a handful of movies released in the first half of March ever open to more than $20 million,” said Jim Tharp, head of distribution for DreamWorks, which released the film. “With sci-fi fans and young males being the predominate audience ... that core audience seemed to really enjoy the movie.”

In second place was “We Were Soldiers,” in its second weekend, and opening in third was “All About the Benjamins,” an action comedy starring Ice Cube.

“Time Machine” was previously made into a movie in 1960, under the direction of George Pal. The new version stars Guy Pearce as a scientist from a century ago who builds a time machine while seeking to undo a tragedy from his past.

It’s a live-action debut for Wells, who previously directed the animated movie “Balto.”

“We Were Soldiers,” Mel Gibson’s Vietnam War saga, held up well from its opening last weekend, dropping only 29% to take in an estimated $14.5 million.

“All About the Benjamins” opened in 1,505 theaters, compared with 2,944 for “Time Machine,” and took in $10.1 million. The film’s per-screen average of $6,728 was not far behind the $7,643 for “Time Machine.”

“All About the Benjamins” stars Ice Cube as a bounty hunter pursuing a bail-jumping con man (Mike Epps). During the chase, the two wind up in the middle of a diamond heist.

Rounding out the top five were the comedy “40 Days and 40 Nights” with $7.1 million and the drama “John Q.” with $6 million.

The importance of Oscar nominations was also evident this weekend in the staying power of eighth-place “A Beautiful Mind,” 10th-place “The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring” and 16th-place “In the Bedroom.” All are best picture nominees.

Continuing to do well in limited release was “Monsoon Wedding.” The film, out three weeks and playing in 76 theaters, took in $10,250 per theater for a total of $779,000.

Overall, the take from the weekend’s top 12 films was 34% higher than the same weekend last year, when there was no major opening to drive receipts.