With the current string of blockbuster bombs, “The Wolverine” faces a different kind of test than the others. Because of those flops, all eyes will be fixated on the numbers. It is off to a good start with $4 million in the tank already with those early showings.
That may not be fair, but another test for this film will be getting those who are not avid fans of the genre to go. They, too, may be suffering from fatigue with the string of these films. But, Hugh Jackman is back and fans of “The Wolverine” will, no doubt, see it.
The bottom line is that the summer movie season is ripe for these movies and to entertain is the main factor. Despite the woes, the box office is still pace for a record summer season. The flops could be blamed for the glut that the season has seen.
Weekend
1. “The Wolverine”- 3,924 theaters
2. “Fruitvale Station” – 1,061 theaters
3. “The Way, Way Back”- 886 theaters
4. “The To-Do List” – 591 theaters
5. “Blue Jasmine” – 6 theaters
“Fruitvale Station” goes much wider this weekend. As noted when it first was released, this one will not be forgotten come award season time. At least for its star, Michael B. Jordan. Most of the hype and talk happened when it got released in a scant numbers of theaters. That is hat happens when it starts in a few theaters. This one may be able to sustain some headlines going forward.
On the other hand of the action spectrum comes “The To Do List.” Think of this as a bucket list for a young woman, who was not fulfilled in high school. Of course, this means enlisting your friends for those madcap adventures. Can “The Honey Do List” be far off? The cast is packed, but this is mainly about its star, Aubrey Plaza.
“The Way Way Back” is slowing making its way in theaters and continues to gain an audience. Many times the story is familiar so it takes a cast to pull it off. That is they key to a fine film. And that is why the actors get recognized. They take that similar plot and ride it to victory. Steve Carrell stars.
Now, there is word that Superman and Batman are going to star in a movie together. One may wonder if this is a good idea. But, the box office results over the last few years. are screaming for this. These films sell tickets. However, this means they fight each other. Those not familiar with that idea and new to these superheroes may not like to see them fighting. Or, will they bypass that aspect?
Plus, perhaps many did not like the idea of Superman passing the “kill” test in “Man of Steel.” If they didn’t like that, chances are not likely they would fall for Superman and Batman dueling. In the end, it may be the setup for what is to come – “The Justice League.”
Meanwhile, the Screen Actors Guild will honor Rita Moreno with their highest honor next year. Moreno is one of those coveted stars who has captured the EGOT. She has won an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony. She has actually won two Emmys.
The SAG Life Achievement Award is given annually to an actor who fosters the “finest ideals of the acting profession.” She actually has won two Emmys.
