It was not going to be a question of who which film was going to win but rather by how much. And it was big. A take of $115.2 million makes Universal slap happy. After a year which has seen “Jurassic World” and “Furious 7” go bonkers at the box office, now they have this huge animated success.
It was the second-highest animated opener behind “Shrek the Third,” which open with $121.6 million in 2007. But,m as noted by Box Office Mojo, it was the highest opening for a 3D movie ever. Yes, records matter on many levels. Even when the records are not all that important, they get noted.
Weekend
1. “Minions” – $115.2 millions
2. “Jurassic World” – $18.1 million
3. “Inside Out” – $17 million
But, let’s be honest, this year is odd. On one hand, it is one the path for a record year, yet trends are weird. When a movie wins, it does so in a big way, often way past estimates. When one does poorly, it does in a big way, Then there is a weekend like this – – a huge bank for the winner and the distant second place finisher.
What that means to the quality of the box office, overall, could be debated. The movies that are out seem to be targeted to primarily families, which is smart. But, the product does lack quality in the long run. But, for now, it is “Minions” making millions and so will the other formula movies.
“The Gallows,” a horror film, made a weak $10 million while “Self/Less” took in $5.4 million. Of course, all this about the “Minions” needs to be finalized Monday since it opened so darn big.
But, one thing is certain, it wins and it did take away crowds from both “Jurassic World” and “Inside Out.” How much is still uncertain, though. This one appealed to all demographics, too, and that bodes well for it to have legs.
Meanwhile, just try to not see a Minion on TV, in stores, or anywhere else, right now. That is quality marketing.
