This weekend’s numbers proved difficult to predict.  Conservative estimates had Watchmen at around $60 million while other estimates had the movie grossing more than $300’s $70 million haul. Instead, the Zack Snyder directed comic book movie brought in $55.7 million putting it easily in the number one spot for the weekend, but the weak showing has to be disappointing for Warner Bros. who spent over $100 million to make the movie as well as $50 million on advertising.  This is especially disconcerting as Warner still has to pay a chunk of revenue to Fox as part of a settlement over rights to distribute the film.

Second with only a 46% drop was Tyler Perry’s Madea Goes to Jail.  The movie scored $8.8 million to beat out the $7.5 million gross of Taken which has shown surprisingly strong staying power.  The Liam Neeson thriller has cumed $118 million in six weeks.

The Oscar winning Slumdog Millionaire came in fourth for the weekend with $6.9 million.  Its awards kudos coupled with great word-of-mouth have allowed the movie, against all odds, to gross over $125 million in its 17 week run.

Paul Blart: Mall Cop and He’s Just Not That Into You came in fifth and sixth respectively, each scoring just over $4 million.  

Coraline moved to the number seven spot, dropping 37% and scoring $3.3 million.  The amazing 3D film has grossed $65 million.  If you haven’t seen it, do so, and immediately.

Spots eight, nine, and ten were taken up with Confessions of a Shopaholic ($3.1 million), Jonas Brothers: The 3D Concert Experience (a measly $2.8 million), and Fired Up! ($2.6 million).  Most notably, Jonas was down 78% from its somewhat disappointing opening.  Maybe this means we will be spared a sequel?

That’s the wrap-up.  Until next time, remember to supersize your popcorn for just 50 cents more.