It’s official now. Dr. Seuss’ “The Lorax” walloped Disney’s “John Carter” at the box office last weekend.
“The Lorax” has remained number 1 for two weeks in a row now. North American ticket sales from Friday through Sunday were $39.1 million, according to estimates from the studio.
“John Carter” came in second at the box office on its opening weekend. It brought in $30.6 million. That’s actually somewhat better than the $25 million that was predicted just before the weekend. The predictions have been revised downward as the film closed in on its opening date. Overseas box office sales came in at $70.6 million. Disney reportedly spent $250 million (some estimate higher) to make the big-budget film. Considering marketing and other costs, and splitting the proceeds with theaters, Disney will have a tough time recouping their investment.
It was a rough weekend for other new movies as well.
Eddie Murphy’s “A Thousand Words” brought in $6.4 million. Its budget is estimated to be around $40 million. Like “John Carter,” this picture was panned by critics.
Horror movie “Silent House” also debuted this weekend with box office sales of approximately $7 million.