NATIONAL BOX OFFICE: ‘Dark Knight’ Flies Highest Ever

SEBRING, July 21, 2008The Dark Knight lit up ticket windows across the country the weekend of July 18-20 on its way to a staggering, record performance.

Starring Christian Bale and Heath Ledger, and directed by Christopher Nolan, The Dark Knight set five box office records: the largest weekend opening in history with a $155.3 million haul, the largest single day opener (Friday), with a $59.8 million haul,  the largest Thursday/Friday midnight sneak peak ever, with a haul of $18.5 million, the largest combined Friday take, a $67.9 million, and the largest ever per theater average, $35,579.

It was a smashing performance that saw The Dark Knight blow by venerable competition from franchises like Spider-man, Pirates of the Caribbean, and Star Wars.

It remains to see how the film will fare in the weeks to come, but with Oscar buzz and strong reviews, The Dark Knight is likely to continue its high flight.

Mamma Mia! finished second with $27.5 million and Hancock claimed the No. 3 spot with $14 million.

Overal, the weekend of July 18-20 was the biggest in history, with the Top Ten films grossing more than $255 million.

One Response

  1. kudos to the makers Dark Knight for their record breaking opening weekend… it’s no wonder there’s talk of another one coming out ASAP

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