Chicken Little came in on top of the box office this weekend by a pretty large margin. Chicken Little made just over $40.1 million, which by the way is a lot more than industry experts were expecting.
I still don’t know that this 3D animated film is going to pass the $350 million world wide that Disney says they’re hoping for… but a $40+ million opening weekend certainly won’t hurt.
What will hurt is the fact that most critics don’t like it very much. Think about it. The Incredibles made over $70 million on it’s opening weekend… but everyone (critics and audiences) LOVED it. Word got around fast about how good the film was. That word of mouth pushed it to over $260 million domestically with over $360 million world wide. Chicken Little isn’t getting that kind of huge word of mouth.
But, keep in mind that being the only real “kids flick” out there right now it does stand to make a lot… I just don’t think $350 million is realistic.
I brought my 4 yr old to this movie – we had to leave. She was so scared during the dark, loud, alien moments she jumped in my arms and demanded we leave. As we were getting ready to leave we noticed other parents carrying their children out as well. At least 5 parents/children left before we did. The movie was too dark and loud for my 4 yr old. I urge caution to parents…this is not a delightful movie.
SPLP
I am personally glad. Critics should shut up their mouths from time to time. And I will see the movie. Period.
If you slap on a rating under PG-13 these days, you’re guaranteed a number one opening, even if your movie is SHIT.
I must admit, this is a big surprise. I was fairly certain Jarhead would beat it at the box-office.
Unfortunately, you’re right, the critics hate it. I saw it, and they’re right: it sucks. $350 million?! Not a chance.