Box Office Update 10/10-10/12: Chihuahua's Remains Top Dog

"Who let the dogs out?" Oh, wow. I am so sorry for that. It slipped out before I knew what had happened. I will endeavor to stifle such outbursts in the future, but I can't make any promises.

This weekend past saw Beverly Hills Chihuahua repeat as the number one film in the country. To say I was surprised would be something of an understatement, but I guess I shouldn't be. With the dearth of family films out right now (not counting fantasy fare like City of Ember), it should be almost expected that something like this would be the biggest draw for two weeks.

With the current economic situation, it seems people want some escapist fare, and why would I begrudge that? I like escapism as much as the next movie-goer, even though I have little interest in seeing the talking dogs. It should come as no surprise that Body of Lies failed to light up the box office, with its Middle East setting. Despite being a quality film, any movie with current political overtones generally fails to light up the box office.

Now, while I shouldn't be surprised by Body of Lies' failure to open strongly at the box office, I am. This is a big budget film directed by a someone with a proven track record and name recognition in Ridley Scott, not to mention a couple of first rate actors in Leonardo DiCaprio and Russell Crowe. I guess it will have to wait for DVD to really make its money back. Just do not let this soft open dissuade you from seeing it on the big screen, as it is a really good film. Picture James Bond minus the suave and set in a more realistic world.

Landing right in between the pups and the titans is a new horror film, Quarantine. It is a near shot-for-shot remake of a Spanish film called [REC]. This opened well and deservedly so. If you are looking for a film with scares, this delivers — it has blood, jump scares that work, and an overwhelming sense that there is no escape. So, if you want some horror, real horror, and don't want to wait for the overly plotted bloodletting of Saw V, this is for you.

Article Author: Chris Beaumont

Christopher Beaumont spends much of his time writing about music and movies when he isn't indulging in them. He is always ready to talk about his favorite form of entertainment and offer up recommendations. Follow: Twitter and Tumblr. Visit: Critical Outcast. …

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