By Chris Kavan - 11/07/13 at 07:49 AM CT
Last week Ender's Game managed to top Bad Grandpa for the top of slot - even though it was ultimately a weaker-than-expected opening. Following a monster international debut, Marvel looks to make just as big of a splash domestically when Thor brings the hammer down in a darker sequel. In the coming weeks, there are going to be a lot of waves being made - so Thor may only have a couple of weeks to awe audiences. That may be enough, however, as audiences seem to have a new passion for all things super hero.
THOR: THE DARK WORLD It has been an excellent run for Marvel, as The Avengers dominated last year and Iron Man 3 proved that a stand-alone hero was worth nearly as much as a collection. Thor was not quite as popular the first time around, but Chris Hemsworth, Natalie Portman and fan favorite baddie Tom Hiddleston (as Loki) all back in the mix (along with a variety of other Asgardians) this sequel is shaping up to, what I think, looks like a better film than the first one. For one, it looks to take on a more serious tone. While other people may be turned off by the darker themes, for me you can't have conflict unless you have some darkness involved. I mean, the film is called The Dark World - hopefully we get something meaningful here. But don't worry - the trailers also show there will be more than enough action to go around as well - and even some humor thrown in. I like the fact that these super hero films continue to evolve into something more than just some costumed freaks smacking other guys around. I like these not just for the action - but the fact they do give some heart, some character and yes, even a compelling story - and it all adds up to something I feel like I want to watch. Hopefully Thor doesn't disappoint in his second solo outing.
So what kind of counter-programming do have against a massive super hero juggernaut? How about a sickly sweet romantic dramedy involving... time travel? That's right - Domhnall Gleeson finds out he can travel through time (thanks to advice given by his dad, the consummate professional Bill Nighy) and he uses these power to make his life, well, perfect - and this involves creating the perfect life with Rachel McAdams (not bad - she seems like a perfectly nice choice). Of course, things don't go quite as planned and he finds out not everything in life can be perfect. This didn't make many waves in limited release, and though there is a lack of romantic movies in theaters, I have a feeling this isn't going to do any better with general audiences. It's one of those movies I think guys dread getting dragged to - way too cloying and saccharine for its own good. The only thing it has going for it is the lack of direct competition - but this is one that should come out around Valentine's Day - a fall release isn't likely to do it any favors.
There is no doubt in my mind that Thor is going to have the run of the weekend. The only question is how much money it's going to make. With one of the best international openings this year, all signs point to a great domestic opening. Ender's Game will certainly be up - and only The Hunger Games is likely to slow it down in a couple weeks.
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