Overall business looks to continue remaining ahead of last year, which had Infinity War remaining on top with $62 million, while Life of the Party ($18 million) and Breaking In ($17 million) opened in second and third place.
Here is the projected Top 10:
#1: Detective Pikachu ($80 million)
While Endgame's impact has been huge, millennials and kids are pumped for the first live-action film based on the Pokemon franchise. While analysts have dialed back expectations because of how huge Endgame has been, I think they are seriously under-estimating this film, which will certainly cut into the older kids and teens that would normally go see Endgame at this point (and its' been seen already). Buzz has been strong, and awareness is through-the-roof. And the fanbase for Pokemon rivals some of the most famous franchises on the planet like Star Wars, Marvel, and Disney. I may be on the high end here, but I think we are looking at an upset.
#2: Avengers: Endgame ($69 million, -53%)
With Pikachu stealing older kids and teenagers, Endgame probably won't hold as well as Infinity War did (-45%) in its third weekend. But, the film is still at a breakneck pace that looks to top $700 million by Sunday.
#3: The Hustle ($13 million)
A remake of Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, this PG-13 comedy with Anne Hathaway and Rebel Wilson should signify a hit. However, overall buzz has been lacking. Mother's Day usually appeals to movies like this, but there just doesn't seem to be a lot of excitement. A debut closer to the likes of Snatched ($14 million) and Hot Pursuit ($13 million) looks to be in the cards.
#4: Poms ($10 million)
STX Entertainment is in need of a hit, and they might get one with this senior-aged comedy. With little in the marketplace for older crowds (particularly older females), this Diane Keaton flick looks to hit a similar chord to last year's sleeper hit Book Club. And even if the film underperforms a bit, it should be able to pick up a bit more steam in the coming weeks as older audiences discover it over time.
#5: Long Shot ($6.5 million, -33%)
A lack of R-rated comedy competition should help this particular film save a bit of face from last week.
#6: The Intruder ($6 million, -45%)
After a solid start, this film looks like it could get lost a bit in the midst of more appealing options. And films that aim for an African-American crowd can be a bit front-loaded as well.
#7: Uglydolls ($4.5 million, -48%)
Detective Pikachu will likely steal kids away from this animated disappointment.
#8: Tolkien ($4 million)
Disney gets its first Fox Searchlight release this weekend, and its the author's story based on the life of Lord of the Rings author J.R.R. Tolkien. Fans of the Middle Earth novels will likely come out for this one, and an expanded release of 1,500 locations provides plenty of opportunity to break out. But, this particular film isn't quite pulling in the buzz it needs to have a strong debut. Look for a much more modest opening.
#9: Breakthrough ($2.75 million, -30%)
Poms may steal some older females, but the faith-based crowd-pleaser should continue to hold strong.
#10: Captain Marvel ($2.5 million, -42%)
With its DVD release date announced and Pikachu stealing older kids and teens, Marvel's heroine looks to be starting her final leg here in theaters. But that doesn't take away from how big of a success the film has been.
