The life span of movies these days has radically changed from 10 years ago. With so many new releases now, and with more and more people running out to see anticipated movies earlier and earlier in their theatrical runs, it is very rare for a #1 movie to repeat at #1 the following weekend. It will happen sometimes (still rare) when a MAJOR film comes out, and then nothing but junk comes out the following week.
But we have a very interesting situation here. On Friday another major film is coming out… Angels & Demons (the follow up film to The Da Vinci Code). Star Trek just hit #1 this weekend. Conventional logic (no pun intended) dictates that Angels & Demons (being the only wide release film this coming weekend) will take over the #1 spot. But I’ve got a feeling we might see Star Trek hold the #1 postions for a couple of reasons:
1) Star Trek is the best film of the year so far
2) Word of mouth. I’ve talked to a LOT of people who had no intention of seeing Star Trek, but because of all the people and critics raving about it are now planning on heading out either this week or coming weekend to see what all the fuss is about.
3) Repeat business. There are a LOT of people who have already seen Star Trek that are planning on seeing it again.
4) The Da Vinci Code disappointed. Don’t get me wrong, the film wasn’t a “bad” movie… but it certainly was a disappointment to a lot of people… both fans of the book and those who weren’t.
5) Lack of Angels and Demons buzz. I just don’t hear a lot of people buzzing about or talking about Angels and Demons that much.
So while I wouldn’t put money on it… don’t be surprised if we see Star Trek repeat at #1 even with another major summer film hitting theaters. It just might happen.
What do you guys think? Will Trek hold #1? Or will it be toppled like it’s supposed to be?
