The Dark Knight is opening in a record 4,366 theatres, which, with multiples, comes out a few hundred shy of 10,000 screens, including 94 IMAX showings. Even if this film weren't the biggest movie event of the year, it would still have a distinct advantage over the weekend's other two wide releases: Mamma Mia! and Space Chimps.
Most of the critics I've seen are predicting TDK won't top Spider-Man 3 at the box office, but I think they may be underestimating a few things. Obviously, there's the incredible hype. Secondly, there's the fact that early reviews say the film lives up to the hype. And thirdly, this is Heath Ledger's last full movie prior to his death, meaning it's a chance for his fans to say goodbye. Sure, $151 million is a lofty number, but I think TDK might have the moxie to break the record.
Official Predictions:
- The Dark Knight
- Mamma Mia!
- Hellboy II: The Golden Army
