By Ryan Parsons | Image property of 20th Century Fox, Variety
Avatar
I have to point out two things when it comes to the news that Avatar has officially become number two grossing film of all time at the worldwide box office, passing $1.14 billion on Wednesday. First - How awesome is James Cameron? Seriously. This guy doesn't have a film a don't like, save maybe that first horror movie he did that nobody discusses. The only film that is bigger than Avatar worldwide was also directed by James Cameron. If you don't know the answer, please smack flat of hand to forehead and shout Titanic.
Same director - Top two films ever. That's pretty insane, right?
And, I would like to call out anybody who saw the film on December 18th (or before) and predicted that it would not have legs. Are you kidding me? Facebook and Twitter lit up like fireflies once people exited the theaters with rave word of mouth all over the place. I saw friends call friends, boyfriends call girlfriends, sisters and brothers call other family members. All telling those on the line to go see Avatar. I absolutely adore this film, and have no problem saying that I've seen it more than once in theaters; like many of you out there.
Avatar Sequel? How About a Trilogy?
So let's get to the numbers. Up until Wednesday, Avatar has earned $374.4 million domestically and $760.9 million worldwide; a combined earning that bests the $1.1 billion taken in by The Lord of the Rings: Return of the King. Ironic, considering that when I finished Return of the King I left the theater thinking, "It's going to be forever until somebody matches this spectacle." I thought the exact same thing while exiting Avatar.
Avatar should do well in the coming weekends. It's not for the lack of competition, however, as the entire box office has remained strong ever since the film's opening on December 18th. Sherlock Holmes has done terrific and even Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel is holding over from week to week. New competition does enter the fray this weekend with the arrival of Daybreakers, Leap Year and Youth in Revolt. Should be interesting to see who comes out on the top this Sunday.
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