“American Sniper” continued its spectacular national rollout taking in an estimated $108.7 million over the Martin Luther King Day weekend. That makes it the no.1 opening in January of all-time and the no. 2 opening among R-rated films following “The Matrix Reloaded.” The Oscar player is also the biggest debut for both star Bradley Cooper and the film's legendary 84-year-old director Clint Eastwood. It should easily retain the top spot for next weekend.
With most of the nation's kids out of school today, “Paddington” is expected to jump to second place for the four-day weekend taking in an estimated $25.2 million. The critically acclaimed family film has already earned $147.3 million around the world.
The Kevin Hart and Josh Gad buddy comedy “The Wedding Ringer” snagged an estimated $24.5 million over the frame for third. That's somewhat disappointing considering how much Hart promoted the comedy and in comparison to “Ride Along's” massive debut exactly a year ago. Of course, “Sniper” affected the performance of almost every wide release in the top 10 so many at Sony Pictures are no doubt relieved “Ringer” just got off to a solid start.
“Taken 3” landed in fourth with another $17.4 million and $66.1 million so far. The Liam Neeson thriller is already significantly behind where the first two “Taken” movies were 19 days out but don't feel bad for 20th Century Fox or producer Luc Besson. It's already earned $97.6 million overseas.
“Selma” rounded out the top five taking in another $11.5 million over the four-day for $29.1 million to date. The best picture nominee centers on Dr. King and will look to drive Oscar attention to a $50 million plus domestic tally.
New films opening on Friday include “Mordecai,” “The Boy Next Door” and “Strange Magic.”
Final numbers for the holiday weekend won't be released until Tuesday.