By Ryan Parsons | Images property of New Line Cinema.
Rush Hour 3
Though the reception to Rush Hour 3 was not exactly positive -- far from, actually -- this summer once again proves that critics cannot sway viewers. Even with weak word of mouth, it turns out that the franchise's six-year hiatus built up some demand for its third installment.
Box Office Victor: Rush Hour 3
Released to 3, 778 theaters, Rush Hour 3 was able to garner $50.2 million at the domestic box office. Opening at less than Rush Hour 2, which took in $67.4 million six years back, the film still took the number one spot for the weekend.
One of my favorite films of the summer, The Bourne Ultimatum, held onto the #2 spot with $33.7 million in its second frame. The film is holding strong thanks to word of mouth, and only dropped 56% from its opening.
With added help from The Simpsons Movie (#3 with $11.1 million) and Stardust (#4 with $9 million), the total domestic box office for the weekend was up 30% from last year.
When it comes to the titleholder, Rush Hour 3, New Line has already got some excuses why this third installment did not open as strong as the second. As you might have guessed, the studio says nothing about the film's negative reviews.
"It's a very crowded marketplace. When we opened Rush Hour 2 on Aug. 3, 2001, there was far less competition," [New Line's] Tuckerman said.
Producer Arthur Sarkissian seems to think that negative press has nothing on 'word of mouth.'
"Everyone is very happy, and the word of mouth will be very strong. At the same time, it is six years later, and it is the tail end of summer. These are factors that have to be considered."
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