Holdovers Crumble Under ‘Gran Torino’

As indicated by last weekend's declines, the nationwide holdovers fell sharply over the weekend, though overall business was good, courtesy of Gran Torino, Bride Wars and The Unborn. Drops of more than 50 percent were typical even for the well-received titles. The champion of the last two weeks, Marley and Me, led the way with $11.4 million. Though down 53 percent, the comedy's total grew to a stupendous $123.7 million in 18 days.

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button degenerated 51 percent to $9.2 million for a solid $94.1 million in 18 days. After the holidays, family movies can be hit the hardest, which was the case with Bedtime Stories. It plummeted 57 percent to $8.8 million for $97.4 million in 18 days, still trailing Click among comparable past movies. Valkyrie retreated 53 percent to $6.6 million for $71.5 million in 18 days. Off 57 percent, Yes Man made $6 million for $89.3 million in 24 days, and Seven Pounds bled 62 percent to $3.8 million for $66.7 million in 24 days, rounding out the Top Ten.

Slumdog Millionaire had another best hold among nationwide releases, easing 19 percent to $3.8 million. The drama's tally grew to a potent $34.1 million. Twilight again joined the roster of small declines. The vampire romance was down 39 percent to $2.8 million and its total climbed to $181.4 million, edging out Interview with the Vampire adjusted for ticket price inflation.

In limited release, three high profile pictures expanded. The Reader posted a modest $1.35 million at 507 sites, tallying $5.5 million thus far. Revolutionary Road made more from fewer theaters, grossing $1.43 million at 135 sites for a $3.2 million total, while The Wrestler mustered $848,410 at 60 sites for a $2.8 million tally. Both are early in their runs and haven't yet indicated broad appeal.

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