August 13th, 2002

"XXX" Marks The Spot

No surprise this weekend as Vin Diesel's latest action romp, XXX, took the top spot with an impressive 44.5 million. It didn't break records, but it's certainly a strong opening. Despite some mixed-pans by critics, it seems like a guy dream film... which is why I was surprised the film didn't make more. Still, it's a nice opening for sure.

And passing 100 million (and going well over) was Signs, M. Night Shyamalan's latest hit creep fest with a cool 29.5 million. Spy Kids 2: The Island Of Lost Dreams (I think it's better than the original) also did nicely with a 16.7 weekend take and 25 million total since last Wednesday's opening. I'm not sure if it will outgross the original, but it should come close.

Austin Powers In Goldmember took in another 13.1 million, while Blood Work, Clint Eastwood's latest directorial work, bombed with 7.3 million despite positive reviews. The Dana Carvey kiddie comedy The Master Of Disguise took a MAJOR dip with a mere 5.1 million, while Road To Perdition hung on with 4.2 million.

My Big Fat Greek Wedding continues to amaze (it's a nice, warm mainstream movie in my humble opinion) by upping another 3.1 million, having a tie with the concert film Martin Lawerence Live: RunTelDat. Finally, Stuart Little 2 is one sad dud.

I suppose that wraps up the major summer releases, so the next few weeks should be panning out in an interesting fashion. Stay tuned, flick fans.

-Zach B.