October is looking to get off to a red-hot start, with two releases that audiences will likely flock to. In the meantime, business is set to soar ahead of last year, which was led by the debut of Blade Runner 2049 ($32.8 million).
Here is the predicted Top 10:
#1: Venom ($62 million)
Sony has had this project in the works for years, and now its' finally here. Tom Hardy takes on the role of one of Spider-Man's most well-known villains. While the character may be more familiar to hardcore fanatics than normal moviegoers, there is still a lot of anticipation here. There is one big snag that may keep it from overperforming (or not?). Many fans were hoping for an R-rated film, and instead it was given a PG-13 so that way the character could appear in a Spider-Man movie further down the line. Now, a PG-13 film means more younger viewers could go see it (though its' obviously too dark and scary for kids if the trailers are any indicator). But, overall buzz still supports a huge opening, and an opening that looks to top Gravity ($55.8 million) for the biggest October opening ever.
#2: A Star is Born ($35 million)
For females and adults, this remake of the classic Barbara Streisand movie looks to fit the bill and more. With awards season buzz and a strong marketing effort, plus the fact that musicals have been on a major box office renaissance as of late, this looks likely to be a big success. This is perfect counter-programming against the more male-driven Venom, and buzz is through-the-roof. In fact, I would not be surprised if it went higher.
#3: Night School ($14 million, -50%)
Films aimed at African-Americans typically tend to be front-loaded. I expect similar results here, especially with all audiences looking to flock to the two newbies.
#4: Smallfoot ($13.5 million, -41%)
With younger audiences likely too scared by Venom, this animated tale should remain the top draw for families this weekend. Look for a solid hold.
#5: The House with a Clock in its Walls ($7.5 million, -40%)
No additional PG-rated competition (though tweens and teens may be swayed by Venom) should help this book adaptation to have a better hold than last week.
#6: A Simple Favor ($4 million, -39%)
While younger females may still come out for this, A Star is Born will be drawing older females. As a result, I don't expect this to hold quite as well as previous weeks.
#7 (tie): The Nun ($3 million, -45%)
No real horror competition (since Venom is not R) should help this horror flick to continue playing.
#7 (tie): Crazy Rich Asians ($3 million, -29%)
The word-of-mouth sensation will prove to still be a top choice for younger date night audiences (those too young especially for the R-rated A Star is Born). It may also benefit greatly from double-features with that film, as they are both Warner Bros. releases.
#9: H*** Fest ($2 million, -60%)
"C" CinemaScore and no discussion about it, plus most horror fans already have The Nun. End of story.
As for the #10 spot, it could go to either Predator or White Boy Rick. Both are looking to take tumbles with both newbies stealing more of their audience. Right now, they both are looking at a weekend around $1.5 million, where they might compete for the 10th spot.
