Tyler Perry's latest feature rose to the top of the box office with a dominating performance. Tyler Perry's Madea Goes to Jail easily beat the competition on its way to a debut take north of $41 million. I cannot say I have ever felt the drive to go to any of Tyler Perry's films, actually I've never seen one, but the man definitely has his fans. The best I can say is "congratulations." The man has his own voice and makes the films he wants to makes, and seems to have a great time doing it.
Following in second place is Coraline, slipping just 22% while climbing three places on the chart. It is good to see people taking advantage of the 3D projection before the film loses all of those screens to the Jonas Brothers concert movie. At this point of the year, Coraline is hands down the best new film of 2009. It is a magical piece of animation that tells a captivating tale and does not rely on comedy to move the story along. The 3D also looks fantastic.
Third place is held by the surprisingly strong legs of Taken (2009). This week represents its largest dip yet, but it is on the cusp of becoming the second $100 million earner of the year. The film is a wild action film that goes gleefully over the top while retaining its edge. I can say I never thought I would see Liam Neeson as the action star.
He's Just Not That Into You has begun its descent down the charts. With Valentine's Day in the rear view mirror, its relevance is beginning to disappear. Still, it has pulled in a nice chunk of money and is actually a pretty good movie.
Fifth place is held by the surging Slumdog Millionaire. The film rose 15% in its gross this week and is poised to cross the $100 million mark. I wonder if its eight Oscar wins will help push it further? I figure they cannot hurt and the movie really is quite good.
Falling from its perch high in first place, Friday the 13th (2009) stumbled all the way to sixth. The high expectations that came with its strong opening last week were dashed in the shadow of an 80% drop. I have to ask, where are the horror fans? The film, while not perfect, is a highly entertaining slasher film.
Seventh place is owned by Paul Blart: Mall Cop. This family comedy is doing very well, and despite what you may think, is a good movie. It has a good heart, is legitimately funny, and is entertaining for the whole family. I am interested in seeing what they will do with the proposed sequel.
Article comments