Comic book movie "Joker" is poised to surpass $1 billion (£781.5 million)in global ticket sales on Friday, becoming the first R-rated Hollywood movie ever to overcome the milestone.

"Joker," a dark origin story from Warner Bros&nbsp;about Batman's arch-nemesis, had sold $999.1 billion as of Thursday despite not having been screened in China, which is projected to become the world's largest movie market next year.

Starring Joaquin Phoenix as a mentally-ill loner who finds fame through a random act of violence, the movie earned warm reviews as it opened in early October but stoked controversy in the United States over fears it would encourage violence.

Box office analyst Gitesh Pandya said "Joker" would top the $1 billion level on Friday.

"Absolutely jaw-dropping achievement for an R-rated film with a moderate budget and no China release," Pandya, founder and editor of Box Office Guru, wrote on Twitter.

Its nearest R-rated rivals are 2018 movie "Deadpool 2" ($785 million) and 2016's "Deadpool" ($783 million), both starring Ryan Reynolds as a foul-mouthed superhero.

Thanks to a modest production budget estimated at about $60 million, "Joker" is also the most profitable comic book movie ever, according to Forbes.com, due largely to the film's focus on character rather than special effects and action scenes.

"Joker" is now the 7th biggest Hollywood movie at the 2019 box office, behind the action-packed blockbuster "Avengers: Endgame" at $2.8 billion and family movie "The Lion King" at $1.6 billion, both from Walt Disney.

The movie is expected to land nominations in the upcoming Hollywood awards season and has inspired fans to visit the spot in New York's Bronx district where Phoenix's character transforms into the Joker, his face painted like a clown and with green hair, and dances triumphantly down a set of steep steps.

Comic book movie "Joker" is poised to surpass $1 billion (£781.5 million)in global ticket sales on Friday, becoming the first R-rated Hollywood movie ever to overcome the milestone.

Comic book movie "Joker" is poised to surpass $1 billion (£781.5 million)in global ticket sales on Friday, becoming the first R-rated Hollywood movie ever to overcome the milestone. "Joker," a dark origin story from Warner Bros about Batman's arch-nemesis, had sold $999.1 billion as of Thursday despite not having been screened in China, which is projected to become the world's largest movie market next year. Starring Joaquin Phoenix as a mentally-ill loner who finds fame through a random act of violence, the movie earned warm reviews as it opened in early October but stoked controversy in the United States over fears it would encourage violence. Box office analyst Gitesh Pandya said "Joker" would top the $1 billion level on Friday. "Absolutely jaw-dropping achievement for an R-rated film with a moderate budget and no China release," Pandya, founder and editor of Box Office Guru, wrote on Twitter. Its nearest R-rated rivals are 2018 movie "Deadpool 2" ($785 million) and 2016's "Deadpool" ($783 million), both starring Ryan Reynolds as a foul-mouthed superhero. Thanks to a modest production budget estimated at about $60 million, "Joker" is also the most profitable comic book movie ever, according to Forbes.com, due largely to the film's focus on character rather than special effects and action scenes. "Joker" is now the 7th biggest Hollywood movie at the 2019 box office, behind the action-packed blockbuster "Avengers: Endgame" at $2.8 billion and family movie "The Lion King" at $1.6 billion, both from Walt Disney. The movie is expected to land nominations in the upcoming Hollywood awards season and has inspired fans to visit the spot in New York's Bronx district where Phoenix's character transforms into the Joker, his face painted like a clown and with green hair, and dances triumphantly down a set of steep steps.

'Joker' expected to cross $1 billion global box office milestone

'Terminator: Dark Fate'&nbsp;shot past box office competition but still fell short of expectations as Paramount and Skydance Media's sci-fi sequel debuted to $29 million in North America. 
 
Though the sixth installment in the 'Terminator'&nbsp;franchise landed in first place on domestic box office charts, the results are less than promising given the film's $185 million budget.

Heading into the weekend, the movie was expected to collect over $40 million during its first three days in theatres. Those figures seemed attainable since reviews were strong and audience sentiment was overwhelmingly positive. 
 
International audiences could give the film a boost. Overseas, 'Terminator: Dark Fate'&nbsp;earned another $72.9 million. Disney is releasing the movie in all foreign territories aside from China, where Tencent Pictures is handling distribution. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/terminator-dark-fate-review-it-is-time-to-put-the-franchise-to-rest-259247">Read the film's&nbsp;review here</a> 
 
'Dark Fate'&nbsp;reunites series creator James Cameron with stars Linda Hamilton and Arnold Schwarzenegger for the first 'Terminator'&nbsp;movie since 1991's 'Terminator 2: Judgement Day'.&nbsp;

They were joined by new cast members Mackenzie Davis, Natalia Reyes and Gabriel Luna. In this instalment, Sarah Connor (Hamilton) must protect a young girl from a deadly new Terminator from the future. Tim Miller 'Deadpool' directed from a screenplay by David S. Goyer 'The Dark Knight,'&nbsp;'Blade', Justin Rhodes and Billy Ray. 
 
'Terminator'&nbsp;might not be the only film with a dark fate at multiplexes. Edward Norton's 'Motherless Brooklyn'&nbsp;barely cracked the top 10, generating a paltry $3.6 million when it bowed in 2,720 North American theatres. The neo-noir crime drama, based on Jonathan Lethem's novel, cost $26 million. In addition to writing and directing the long-gestating film, Norton stars as a private investigator with Tourette syndrome who works to solve the murder of his mentor. The cast also includes Bruce Willis, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Bobby Cannavale and Alec Baldwin. 
 
Fellow new release, Focus Features&nbsp;'Harriet',&nbsp;&nbsp;had a far more promising start at the domestic box office, arriving at No. 4 with $12 million from 2,059 venues, ahead of expectations. The film boasts a rare A+ Cinemascore from audiences, signaling the historical drama could continue to benefit from positive word of mouth. Older female moviegoers drove 'Harriet's'&nbsp;opening weekend sales: 62% were women and 59% were over the age of 35. African Americans accounted for nearly 50% of ticket buyers. 
 
'Harriet'&nbsp;carries a $17 million production budget, which should help it pave a clear path toward profitability. Adding to the plaudits for Focus Features, it's the first specialty studio in 15 years with two back-to-back films that debuted above $10 million. In September, the company released 'Downton Abbey',&nbsp;which launched with a better-than-expected $31 million. 
 
'Harriet'&nbsp;centers on Harriet Tubman (Cynthia Erivo), the abolitionist who led hundreds of enslaved people to freedom on the Underground Railroad. Kasi Lemmons directed the film, which also stars Leslie Odom Jr., Joe Alwyn, and Janelle Monae. 
 
"Audiences have been unanimous for their love of this film, which is clear from its A+ CinemaScore and 98% Audience rating on Rotten Tomatoes," said Lisa Bunnell, Focus Feature's&nbsp;president of distribution. "With the story of one woman`s strength that literally change the world we all live in today, it is the feel-great movie people are looking for becoming an event for friends and families going to see together ". 
 
Adds producer Debra Martin Chase, "This is not a slave movie. This is a movie that says we cannot control the circumstances into which we are born, but we can control what we do once we get here ". 
 
This weekend's final newcomer, Entertainment Studios Motion Pictures&nbsp;'Arctic Dogs',&nbsp;lacked much bite, debuting in 10th place with $3.1 million from 2,844 screens. The kid-friendly animated adventure about a team of ambitions animals features the voice cast of Jeremy Renner, Heidi Klum, James Franco, and Anjelica Huston. 
 
Meanwhile, Warner Bros.&nbsp;'Joker'&nbsp;benefited from the Halloween spirit and held steady at No. 2, declining just 29% to $13.6 million in its fifth weekend of release. 'Joker'&nbsp;has generated a huge $299 million in North America and $934 million globally, putting Joaquin Phoenix's super-villain origin story on track to clear the $1 billion mark worldwide. 
 
Holdovers Disney's 'Maleficent: Mistress of Evil'&nbsp;and MGM's 'Addams Family'&nbsp;rounded out the top five.

'Terminator: Dark Fate' shot past box office competition but still fell short of expectations as Paramount and Skydance Media's sci-fi sequel debuted to $29 million in North America.

'Terminator: Dark Fate' shot past box office competition but still fell short of expectations as Paramount and Skydance Media's sci-fi sequel debuted to $29 million in North America. Though the sixth installment in the 'Terminator' franchise landed in first place on domestic box office charts, the results are less than promising given the film's $185 million budget. Heading into the weekend, the movie was expected to collect over $40 million during its first three days in theatres. Those figures seemed attainable since reviews were strong and audience sentiment was overwhelmingly positive. International audiences could give the film a boost. Overseas, 'Terminator: Dark Fate' earned another $72.9 million. Disney is releasing the movie in all foreign territories aside from China, where Tencent Pictures is handling distribution. Read the film's review here 'Dark Fate' reunites series creator James Cameron with stars Linda Hamilton and Arnold Schwarzenegger for the first 'Terminator' movie since 1991's 'Terminator 2: Judgement Day'. They were joined by new cast members Mackenzie Davis, Natalia Reyes and Gabriel Luna. In this instalment, Sarah Connor (Hamilton) must protect a young girl from a deadly new Terminator from the future. Tim Miller 'Deadpool' directed from a screenplay by David S. Goyer 'The Dark Knight,' 'Blade', Justin Rhodes and Billy Ray. 'Terminator' might not be the only film with a dark fate at multiplexes. Edward Norton's 'Motherless Brooklyn' barely cracked the top 10, generating a paltry $3.6 million when it bowed in 2,720 North American theatres. The neo-noir crime drama, based on Jonathan Lethem's novel, cost $26 million. In addition to writing and directing the long-gestating film, Norton stars as a private investigator with Tourette syndrome who works to solve the murder of his mentor. The cast also includes Bruce Willis, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Bobby Cannavale and Alec Baldwin. Fellow new release, Focus Features 'Harriet', had a far more promising start at the domestic box office, arriving at No. 4 with $12 million from 2,059 venues, ahead of expectations. The film boasts a rare A+ Cinemascore from audiences, signaling the historical drama could continue to benefit from positive word of mouth. Older female moviegoers drove 'Harriet's' opening weekend sales: 62% were women and 59% were over the age of 35. African Americans accounted for nearly 50% of ticket buyers. 'Harriet' carries a $17 million production budget, which should help it pave a clear path toward profitability. Adding to the plaudits for Focus Features, it's the first specialty studio in 15 years with two back-to-back films that debuted above $10 million. In September, the company released 'Downton Abbey', which launched with a better-than-expected $31 million. 'Harriet' centers on Harriet Tubman (Cynthia Erivo), the abolitionist who led hundreds of enslaved people to freedom on the Underground Railroad. Kasi Lemmons directed the film, which also stars Leslie Odom Jr., Joe Alwyn, and Janelle Monae. "Audiences have been unanimous for their love of this film, which is clear from its A+ CinemaScore and 98% Audience rating on Rotten Tomatoes," said Lisa Bunnell, Focus Feature's president of distribution. "With the story of one woman`s strength that literally change the world we all live in today, it is the feel-great movie people are looking for becoming an event for friends and families going to see together ". Adds producer Debra Martin Chase, "This is not a slave movie. This is a movie that says we cannot control the circumstances into which we are born, but we can control what we do once we get here ". This weekend's final newcomer, Entertainment Studios Motion Pictures 'Arctic Dogs', lacked much bite, debuting in 10th place with $3.1 million from 2,844 screens. The kid-friendly animated adventure about a team of ambitions animals features the voice cast of Jeremy Renner, Heidi Klum, James Franco, and Anjelica Huston. Meanwhile, Warner Bros. 'Joker' benefited from the Halloween spirit and held steady at No. 2, declining just 29% to $13.6 million in its fifth weekend of release. 'Joker' has generated a huge $299 million in North America and $934 million globally, putting Joaquin Phoenix's super-villain origin story on track to clear the $1 billion mark worldwide. Holdovers Disney's 'Maleficent: Mistress of Evil' and MGM's 'Addams Family' rounded out the top five.

'Terminator: Dark Fate' fizzles with $29 million debut at box office

Walt Disney Co. said Tuesday second-quarter results were lifted by strong box office gains but failed to meet Wall Street forecasts, sending shares sharply lower. 
 
Disney shares tumbled more than three percent in after-hours trade after reporting profits fell 51 percent to $1.4 billion while revenues rose 33 percent to $20.2 billion. 
 
The results included the recently acquired film and television assets from 21st Century Fox, which puts Disney atop the Hollywood box office as it looks to boost its share in an on-demand television battle with Netflix and Amazon. 
 
"Our third-quarter results reflect our efforts to effectively integrate the 21st Century Fox assets to enhance and advance our strategic transformation," said Disney chief executive Bob Iger.

"I'd like to congratulate The Walt Disney Studios for reaching $8 billion at the global box office so far this year -- a new industry record -- thanks to the stellar performance of our Marvel, Pixar and Disney films."

The latest results were highlighted by box-office hits such as "Avengers: Endgame," "Aladdin," "Captain Marvel"&nbsp;and&nbsp;"Toy Story 4." 
The latest "Avengers" film smashed records this year to become the all-time top grossing film with $2.8 billion. 
 
Disney also included results from Hulu, the online streaming service in which it acquired a controlling stake with the Fox deal. 
Disney, which also operates theme parks and the ABC and ESPN television networks, is focusing on streaming as it gears up for the launch of its Disney+ service.

Hulu bundled&nbsp; 
 
Iger announced that the entertainment colossus will take advantage of its control of Hulu to bundle an ad-supported version of the streaming television service with Disney+ and ESPN in the US for a monthly subscription price of $12.99. 
 
He contended that the bundle would offer a cornucopia of high-quality viewing content at a "tremendous" price. 
 
Disney's video streaming service will launch in the US in November, spotlighting its blockbuster-making studios as it takes on powerhouse Netflix. 
 
Disney said that after launching in the US on November 12 at a starting price of $6.99 monthly, Disney+ will gradually expand internationally with a start in Europe. 
 
Disney's service will offer its films and TV shows, along with the library it acquired from Rupert Murdoch's 21st Century Fox. That includes the "Star Wars" and Marvel superhero franchises and ABC television content. 
 
In the recently ended quarter, revenue from Fox film studio was lower than Disney had expected, according to executives. 
 
Disney is working to put some of its movie magic into Fox films, particularly its live-action titles, according to Iger. 
 
"We're all confident that we're going to be able to turn around the fortunes of Fox live action and you'll see those results in a couple of years," Iger said during an earnings call. 
 
Disney wants to rapidly ramp up its digital streaming business and is in talks with potential digital content distribution partners including Amazon, Apple and Google, according to Iger. 
 
"You can expect that we will conclude deals with them as distribution partners," Iger said. 
 
"We think it's important for us to achieve scale relatively quickly and they'll be an important part of that." 
 
Disney's "direct to consumer" revenues rose in the past quarter from $827 million to $3.8 billion, but its operating loss more than tripled to $553 million due to its investments and consolidation of streaming operations.

Walt Disney Co. said Tuesday second-quarter results were lifted by strong box office gains but failed to meet Wall Street forecasts, sending shares sharply lower.

Walt Disney Co. said Tuesday second-quarter results were lifted by strong box office gains but failed to meet Wall Street forecasts, sending shares sharply lower. Disney shares tumbled more than three percent in after-hours trade after reporting profits fell 51 percent to $1.4 billion while revenues rose 33 percent to $20.2 billion. The results included the recently acquired film and television assets from 21st Century Fox, which puts Disney atop the Hollywood box office as it looks to boost its share in an on-demand television battle with Netflix and Amazon. "Our third-quarter results reflect our efforts to effectively integrate the 21st Century Fox assets to enhance and advance our strategic transformation," said Disney chief executive Bob Iger. "I'd like to congratulate The Walt Disney Studios for reaching $8 billion at the global box office so far this year -- a new industry record -- thanks to the stellar performance of our Marvel, Pixar and Disney films." The latest results were highlighted by box-office hits such as "Avengers: Endgame," "Aladdin," "Captain Marvel" and "Toy Story 4." The latest "Avengers" film smashed records this year to become the all-time top grossing film with $2.8 billion. Disney also included results from Hulu, the online streaming service in which it acquired a controlling stake with the Fox deal. Disney, which also operates theme parks and the ABC and ESPN television networks, is focusing on streaming as it gears up for the launch of its Disney+ service. Hulu bundled Iger announced that the entertainment colossus will take advantage of its control of Hulu to bundle an ad-supported version of the streaming television service with Disney+ and ESPN in the US for a monthly subscription price of $12.99. He contended that the bundle would offer a cornucopia of high-quality viewing content at a "tremendous" price. Disney's video streaming service will launch in the US in November, spotlighting its blockbuster-making studios as it takes on powerhouse Netflix. Disney said that after launching in the US on November 12 at a starting price of $6.99 monthly, Disney+ will gradually expand internationally with a start in Europe. Disney's service will offer its films and TV shows, along with the library it acquired from Rupert Murdoch's 21st Century Fox. That includes the "Star Wars" and Marvel superhero franchises and ABC television content. In the recently ended quarter, revenue from Fox film studio was lower than Disney had expected, according to executives. Disney is working to put some of its movie magic into Fox films, particularly its live-action titles, according to Iger. "We're all confident that we're going to be able to turn around the fortunes of Fox live action and you'll see those results in a couple of years," Iger said during an earnings call. Disney wants to rapidly ramp up its digital streaming business and is in talks with potential digital content distribution partners including Amazon, Apple and Google, according to Iger. "You can expect that we will conclude deals with them as distribution partners," Iger said. "We think it's important for us to achieve scale relatively quickly and they'll be an important part of that." Disney's "direct to consumer" revenues rose in the past quarter from $827 million to $3.8 billion, but its operating loss more than tripled to $553 million due to its investments and consolidation of streaming operations.

Disney sees box office gains, but earnings fall short

The Marvel Cinematic Universe hit a new high this year with 'Avengers: Endgame' scoring big at the box office, and now Marvel is hoping to emulate the franchise's success in the video game world.

After Endgame, Marvel's Avengers enter a gaming universe

'Ek Ladki Ko Dekha Toh Aisa Laga', which features father-daughter duo Anil Kapoor and Sonam Kapoor sharing screen space for the first time ever did not have a very impressive start at the box office.

Despite being this week's solo Bollywood release the film managed to earn a mere Rs 3.30 crores on the first day of its release.

Indian film critic and trade analyst Taran Adarsh took to his Twitter to share the box office collection writing, "#EkLadkiKoDekhaTohAisaLaga had a lackluster start, but picked up at select urban centers towards evening... Growth on Day 2 and Day 3 essential for a respectable weekend total... Fri &nbsp;3.30 cr [1500 screens]. India biz.

"Although the film didn't have a good start at the box office, it opened to great reviews from film critics as well as fellow celebrities.

The film will face tough competition from holdovers including Kangana Ranaut’s 'Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi', which is still doing well at the box office and Vicky Kaushal’s 'Uri: The Surgical Strike' which is also going strong at the ticket window.

The movie is set in the backdrop of Punjab and revolves around a love story filled with 'syaapa'.

Directed by Shelly Chopra Dhar, the film deals with a same-sex relationship and is pegged as ‘the most unexpected romance of the year.’

Sonam is said to be playing a homosexual character in the film. The trailer of the movie showed her character rejecting several marriage proposals. She eventually shares her secret with Rajkummar Rao, which is implied to be about her sexual preference. The film also stars Rajkummar Rao and Juhi Chawla in pivotal roles.&nbsp;

'Ek Ladki Ko Dekha Toh Aisa Laga', which features father-daughter duo Anil Kapoor and Sonam Kapoor sharing screen space for the first time ever did not have a very impressive start at the box office.

'Ek Ladki Ko Dekha Toh Aisa Laga', which features father-daughter duo Anil Kapoor and Sonam Kapoor sharing screen space for the first time ever did not have a very impressive start at the box office. Despite being this week's solo Bollywood release the film managed to earn a mere Rs 3.30 crores on the first day of its release. Indian film critic and trade analyst Taran Adarsh took to his Twitter to share the box office collection writing, "#EkLadkiKoDekhaTohAisaLaga had a lackluster start, but picked up at select urban centers towards evening... Growth on Day 2 and Day 3 essential for a respectable weekend total... Fri 3.30 cr [1500 screens]. India biz. "Although the film didn't have a good start at the box office, it opened to great reviews from film critics as well as fellow celebrities. The film will face tough competition from holdovers including Kangana Ranaut’s 'Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi', which is still doing well at the box office and Vicky Kaushal’s 'Uri: The Surgical Strike' which is also going strong at the ticket window. The movie is set in the backdrop of Punjab and revolves around a love story filled with 'syaapa'. Directed by Shelly Chopra Dhar, the film deals with a same-sex relationship and is pegged as ‘the most unexpected romance of the year.’ Sonam is said to be playing a homosexual character in the film. The trailer of the movie showed her character rejecting several marriage proposals. She eventually shares her secret with Rajkummar Rao, which is implied to be about her sexual preference. The film also stars Rajkummar Rao and Juhi Chawla in pivotal roles.

'Ek Ladki Ko Dekha Toh Aisa Laga' gets lackluster start

Rajinikanth is on a roll! Just two months after the roaring success of his last release '2.0', he is back on the big screen with 'Petta'. The actor's film, predioctably, opened to packed houses in Tamil Nadu on Thursday.&nbsp; 
 
Directed by Karthik Subbaraj the film, on the first day, earned about Rs 1.12 crore from the Chennai box office alone. It is also dominating the international market of Tamil cinema. 
 
On day two the film has been doing consistant business. According to trade ananlyst, the film's actual collection and performance at the Box Office will be judged after the first week's collections are in.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USA</a> BO - Thursday at 6 PM PST:<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Petta?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Petta</a> (Tamil &amp; Telugu) - $133K from 194 locations <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Vishwasam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Vishwasam</a> - $18K from 71 Locations
— Ramesh Bala (@rameshlaus) <a href="https://twitter.com/rameshlaus/status/1083547965287878656?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Petta?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Petta</a> leads <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Viswasam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Viswasam</a> at the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Chennai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Chennai</a> City Box office on Day 1.. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Petta?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Petta</a> - 1.12 Crs<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Viswasam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Viswasam</a> - 0.88 Crs 
 
Both had almost 100% occupancy.. 
 
The Bigger auditoriums in the 'Plexes played <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Petta?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Petta</a> on Day 1.. 
 
Regular weekdays 4 shows only in city limits..
— Ramesh Bala (@rameshlaus) <a href="https://twitter.com/rameshlaus/status/1083571209403392000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Early reviews have stated that the film presents superstar Rajinikanth in an '90s avatar and fans have been lauding his performance.&nbsp; 
 
The superstar meanwhile addressed reporters at his residence on Friday and credited his director for the success of the film.&nbsp; 
 
"First, I express my new year and Pongal wishes to one and all. I came to know that the movie is liked by everyone. Very happy for that. The credits should go to Sun Pictures (film producer), Karthik Subbaraj (director) and his unit," Rajinikanth said. 
 
The superstar said as an actor, his utmost priority is that his films should deliver on the expectations of his fans. 
 
"My job is to make them happy. That is very important. I am happy that they are happy. As I said earlier, the credits should go to Karthik Subbaraj. He made sure that he got the best from me in every shot, every scene." 
 
'Petta' hit screens worldwide amid much fanfare Thursday with two couples choosing the occasion to tie the knot.&nbsp; 
 
Produced by Sun Pictures, the music is scored by Anirudh. 
 
The film's cast also includes Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Vijay Sethupathy, Simran, Trisha and actor-director Sasikumar.

Rajinikanth is on a roll! Just two months after the roaring success of his last release '2.0', he is back on the big screen with 'Petta'. The actor's film, predioctably, opened to packed houses in Tamil Nadu on Thursday.

Rajinikanth is on a roll! Just two months after the roaring success of his last release '2.0', he is back on the big screen with 'Petta'. The actor's film, predioctably, opened to packed houses in Tamil Nadu on Thursday. Directed by Karthik Subbaraj the film, on the first day, earned about Rs 1.12 crore from the Chennai box office alone. It is also dominating the international market of Tamil cinema. On day two the film has been doing consistant business. According to trade ananlyst, the film's actual collection and performance at the Box Office will be judged after the first week's collections are in. #USA BO - Thursday at 6 PM PST:#Petta (Tamil & Telugu) - $133K from 194 locations #Vishwasam - $18K from 71 Locations — Ramesh Bala (@rameshlaus) January 11, 2019 × #Petta leads #Viswasam at the #Chennai City Box office on Day 1.. #Petta - 1.12 Crs#Viswasam - 0.88 Crs Both had almost 100% occupancy.. The Bigger auditoriums in the 'Plexes played #Petta on Day 1.. Regular weekdays 4 shows only in city limits.. — Ramesh Bala (@rameshlaus) January 11, 2019 × Early reviews have stated that the film presents superstar Rajinikanth in an '90s avatar and fans have been lauding his performance. The superstar meanwhile addressed reporters at his residence on Friday and credited his director for the success of the film. "First, I express my new year and Pongal wishes to one and all. I came to know that the movie is liked by everyone. Very happy for that. The credits should go to Sun Pictures (film producer), Karthik Subbaraj (director) and his unit," Rajinikanth said. The superstar said as an actor, his utmost priority is that his films should deliver on the expectations of his fans. "My job is to make them happy. That is very important. I am happy that they are happy. As I said earlier, the credits should go to Karthik Subbaraj. He made sure that he got the best from me in every shot, every scene." 'Petta' hit screens worldwide amid much fanfare Thursday with two couples choosing the occasion to tie the knot. Produced by Sun Pictures, the music is scored by Anirudh. The film's cast also includes Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Vijay Sethupathy, Simran, Trisha and actor-director Sasikumar.

Here's how much Rajinikanth's 'Petta' earned on its first day

Disney`s 'Ralph Breaks the Internet' recharged for its second consecutive weekend atop the North American box office, generating a healthy $25.8 million.

That marks a decline of just 53%,&nbsp;and pushes the animated sequel`s domestic haul past $100 million. Overseas, 'Ralph'&nbsp;earned $33.7 million this weekend, taking its international total to $87 million. Keeping in line with end of the year traditions, major studios largely sat out the post-Thanksgiving frame. The only new nationwide release, 'The Possession of Hannah Grace,' opened in line with industry estimates and brought in $6.5 million from 2,065 locations.

'The Possession of Hannah Grace'&nbsp;follows 'Pretty Little Liars' star Shay Mitchell as a morgue worker who realizes a disfigured cadaver has been possessed by a demon. Neither critics nor audiences have embraced the R-rated supernatural thriller (it carries a 19%&nbsp;on Rotten Tomatoes and a C- CinemaScore), though reviews don`t always influence horror buffs. Sony`s Screen Gems distributed the movie, and Broken Road handle production. The movie, which was entirely shot on a small and inexpensive Sony a7s II, carries a $10 million production budget.

However, a handful of holdovers dominated the domestic market. Illumination and Universal`s 'The Grinch'&nbsp;returned to second place, stealing $17.7 million and taking its stateside tally to $203.5 million.&nbsp;

'Creed II,'&nbsp;the second movie in the Rocky Balboa spinoff series, dropped to third and brought in $16.8 million during its second weekend of release. The boxing drama has now amassed $81 million.

In fourth, 'Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald'&nbsp;added $11.2 million for a domestic total of $134 million. While it has struggled to gain the same traction as the first 'Fantastic Beasts,'&nbsp;the sequel in the 'Harry Potter' prequel series has seen promising returns overseas. 'Crimes of Grindelwald' has made $385.3 million from foreign markets, taking its worldwide tally past $500 million.

Rounding out the top five is 'Bohemian Rhapsody' with $7.9 million. Fox`s Freddie Mercury biopic has picked up an impressive $164.3 million in North America.

At the specialty box office, Fox Searchlight`s 'The Favourite'&nbsp;saw another strong weekend when it expanded to 34 theaters. Yorgos Lanthimos` absurdist period drama made $1.1 million this weekend for an impressive screen average of $32,500. The Oscar hopeful that centers on the drama between two cousins jockeying to be the court favorites during the reign of Queen Anne launched last weekend with the best per-theater average ($105,600) in two years. The cast includes Rachel Weisz, Emma Stone, and Olivia Colman. Fox Searchlight plans to bring the film to around 80 theaters as it continues its gradual platform release.

Other indie releases were less fortunate. Warner Bros. 'Head Full of Honey'&nbsp;failed to impress when it opened in four locations in New York and Los Angeles. The drama that sees Nick Nolte portray a widower with Alzheimer`s made just $2,250 per location.

Meanwhile, Orion Pictures` zombie musical "Anna and the Apocalypse" brought in $50,000 when it debuted on five screens, averaging $10,000 per theater.

In notable milestones, National Geographic`s 'Free Solo'&nbsp;became the fourth documentary this year to cross $10 million at the domestic box office. The non-fiction film about the first free solo rock climb of Yosemite`s El Capitan is now the fourth-highest grossing documentary this year, behind 'Won`t You Be My Neighbor" ($22.6 million), 'RBG'&nbsp;($14 million), and "Three Identical Strangers' ($12.3 million).

The 2018 box office continues to outpace last year, with revenues up 10%&nbsp;from 2017, according to Comscore. This weekend`s totals were up a strong 11.8% compared to the same outing last year when the second frame of "Coco" made $27.5 million.

"Typically the post-Thanksgiving weekend is a snooze-fest in theaters," said Paul Dergarabedian, a senior media analyst with Comscore. "While this year was comparatively quiet, it still had the advantage of a strong slate of very popular holdovers, plus the continually expanding roster of awards season films."

Multiplexes won`t see a huge boost in ticket sales until Dec. 14 when 'Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse,' 'The Mule,' and 'Mortal Engines' open nationwide. The following weekend will be one of the more competitive frames with 'Mary Poppins Returns,' 'Aquaman,'&nbsp;and 'Bumblebee'&nbsp;looking to entice moviegoers during a crowded Christmas race.

Disney`s 'Ralph Breaks the Internet' recharged for its second consecutive weekend atop the North American box office, generating a healthy $25.8 million. That marks a decline of just 53%, and pushes the animated sequel`s domestic haul past $100 million.

Disney`s 'Ralph Breaks the Internet' recharged for its second consecutive weekend atop the North American box office, generating a healthy $25.8 million. That marks a decline of just 53%, and pushes the animated sequel`s domestic haul past $100 million. Overseas, 'Ralph' earned $33.7 million this weekend, taking its international total to $87 million. Keeping in line with end of the year traditions, major studios largely sat out the post-Thanksgiving frame. The only new nationwide release, 'The Possession of Hannah Grace,' opened in line with industry estimates and brought in $6.5 million from 2,065 locations. 'The Possession of Hannah Grace' follows 'Pretty Little Liars' star Shay Mitchell as a morgue worker who realizes a disfigured cadaver has been possessed by a demon. Neither critics nor audiences have embraced the R-rated supernatural thriller (it carries a 19% on Rotten Tomatoes and a C- CinemaScore), though reviews don`t always influence horror buffs. Sony`s Screen Gems distributed the movie, and Broken Road handle production. The movie, which was entirely shot on a small and inexpensive Sony a7s II, carries a $10 million production budget. However, a handful of holdovers dominated the domestic market. Illumination and Universal`s 'The Grinch' returned to second place, stealing $17.7 million and taking its stateside tally to $203.5 million. 'Creed II,' the second movie in the Rocky Balboa spinoff series, dropped to third and brought in $16.8 million during its second weekend of release. The boxing drama has now amassed $81 million. In fourth, 'Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald' added $11.2 million for a domestic total of $134 million. While it has struggled to gain the same traction as the first 'Fantastic Beasts,' the sequel in the 'Harry Potter' prequel series has seen promising returns overseas. 'Crimes of Grindelwald' has made $385.3 million from foreign markets, taking its worldwide tally past $500 million. Rounding out the top five is 'Bohemian Rhapsody' with $7.9 million. Fox`s Freddie Mercury biopic has picked up an impressive $164.3 million in North America. At the specialty box office, Fox Searchlight`s 'The Favourite' saw another strong weekend when it expanded to 34 theaters. Yorgos Lanthimos` absurdist period drama made $1.1 million this weekend for an impressive screen average of $32,500. The Oscar hopeful that centers on the drama between two cousins jockeying to be the court favorites during the reign of Queen Anne launched last weekend with the best per-theater average ($105,600) in two years. The cast includes Rachel Weisz, Emma Stone, and Olivia Colman. Fox Searchlight plans to bring the film to around 80 theaters as it continues its gradual platform release. Other indie releases were less fortunate. Warner Bros. 'Head Full of Honey' failed to impress when it opened in four locations in New York and Los Angeles. The drama that sees Nick Nolte portray a widower with Alzheimer`s made just $2,250 per location. Meanwhile, Orion Pictures` zombie musical "Anna and the Apocalypse" brought in $50,000 when it debuted on five screens, averaging $10,000 per theater. In notable milestones, National Geographic`s 'Free Solo' became the fourth documentary this year to cross $10 million at the domestic box office. The non-fiction film about the first free solo rock climb of Yosemite`s El Capitan is now the fourth-highest grossing documentary this year, behind 'Won`t You Be My Neighbor" ($22.6 million), 'RBG' ($14 million), and "Three Identical Strangers' ($12.3 million). The 2018 box office continues to outpace last year, with revenues up 10% from 2017, according to Comscore. This weekend`s totals were up a strong 11.8% compared to the same outing last year when the second frame of "Coco" made $27.5 million. "Typically the post-Thanksgiving weekend is a snooze-fest in theaters," said Paul Dergarabedian, a senior media analyst with Comscore. "While this year was comparatively quiet, it still had the advantage of a strong slate of very popular holdovers, plus the continually expanding roster of awards season films." Multiplexes won`t see a huge boost in ticket sales until Dec. 14 when 'Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse,' 'The Mule,' and 'Mortal Engines' open nationwide. The following weekend will be one of the more competitive frames with 'Mary Poppins Returns,' 'Aquaman,' and 'Bumblebee' looking to entice moviegoers during a crowded Christmas race.

Post-Thanksgiving box office: 'Ralph Breaks the Internet' stays No. 1 with $26 million

If it's a Rajinikanth film, it has to be big. The superstar's latest '2,0' is getting<a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/rajinikanth-akshay-starrer-20-headed-for-biggest-release-for-an-indian-movie-178897"> one of the biggest releases in recent times</a>. As it hits theatres across the world on Friday, trade analysts predict a record opening day for the film. It has already&nbsp;recorded a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/rajinikanths-20-gets-record-breaking-advance-booking-earns-a-whopping-rs-120-crore-178775">massive advance booking</a>, earning a whopping Rs 120 crore.&nbsp;

Speaking to a daily, trade analyst Girish Johar said '2.0' will have a mammoth opening at the ticket counters. “The trailer of 2.0 has increased the expectations of the audience who have been waiting for the film’s release for a very long time. With a fantastic director like Shankar, I don’t think the movie will falter even after the first day. Movie buffs in the South will go berserk as superstar Rajinikanth plays the lead role in the movie."&nbsp;

The fact that the film pits Rajinikanth against Akshay Kumar, who plays the antagonist, is also a big draw for the audience. Akshay Kumar is a superstar in North India and draws big numbers at the box office with his films. "A strong villain always pulls audience as they get involved in the film and start connecting to the hero because of the villain. So, Akshay’s villainous avatar in 2.0 is definitely something which cinephiles are looking forward to. Also, his popularity in the Hindi speaking belt will help the sci-fi film mint money at the box office. It has the potential of becoming Akshay’s non-holiday highest opener,” said Johar.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/mobile-operators-raise-objection-to-rajinikanths-20-want-film-certificate-to-be-revoked-179872">Also read:&nbsp;Rajinikanth's '2.0': Mobile operators don't like it, want film certificate revoked</a>

"The Hindi version of the film is expected to earn something between Rs 20-25 crore on the day of its release. If we consider all languages (Tamil and Telugu), the Rajinikanth starrer will touch Rs 100 crore (gross) mark on day one," Johar predicted.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/rajinikanths-20-cleared-for-release-in-pakistan-sees-record-breaking-advance-booking-180023">Also read:&nbsp;Rajinikanth’s '2.0' cleared for release in Pakistan, sees record-breaking advance booking</a>

The film also stars Amy Jackson and Adil Hussain in prominent roles. Directed by Shankar, '2.0' is a sequel of 'Enthiran'.&nbsp;

If it's a Rajinikanth film, it has to be big. The superstar's latest '2,0' is getting one of the biggest releases in recent times. As it hits theatres across the world on Friday, trade analysts predict a record opening day for the film.

If it's a Rajinikanth film, it has to be big. The superstar's latest '2,0' is getting one of the biggest releases in recent times. As it hits theatres across the world on Friday, trade analysts predict a record opening day for the film. It has already recorded a massive advance booking, earning a whopping Rs 120 crore. Speaking to a daily, trade analyst Girish Johar said '2.0' will have a mammoth opening at the ticket counters. “The trailer of 2.0 has increased the expectations of the audience who have been waiting for the film’s release for a very long time. With a fantastic director like Shankar, I don’t think the movie will falter even after the first day. Movie buffs in the South will go berserk as superstar Rajinikanth plays the lead role in the movie." The fact that the film pits Rajinikanth against Akshay Kumar, who plays the antagonist, is also a big draw for the audience. Akshay Kumar is a superstar in North India and draws big numbers at the box office with his films. "A strong villain always pulls audience as they get involved in the film and start connecting to the hero because of the villain. So, Akshay’s villainous avatar in 2.0 is definitely something which cinephiles are looking forward to. Also, his popularity in the Hindi speaking belt will help the sci-fi film mint money at the box office. It has the potential of becoming Akshay’s non-holiday highest opener,” said Johar. Also read: Rajinikanth's '2.0': Mobile operators don't like it, want film certificate revoked "The Hindi version of the film is expected to earn something between Rs 20-25 crore on the day of its release. If we consider all languages (Tamil and Telugu), the Rajinikanth starrer will touch Rs 100 crore (gross) mark on day one," Johar predicted. Also read: Rajinikanth’s '2.0' cleared for release in Pakistan, sees record-breaking advance booking The film also stars Amy Jackson and Adil Hussain in prominent roles. Directed by Shankar, '2.0' is a sequel of 'Enthiran'.

Rajinikanth's '2.0' release day: Film expected to have a record opening

Ever since Black Panther released, it has continued to<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/entertainment-black-panther-dream-run-at-the-box-office-continues-earns-a-whopping-108-million-in-the-second-weekend-34065" target="_blank"> dominate the worldwide box office</a> with over the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/entertainment-marvels-black-panther-collects-record-rs-1240-cr-in-opening-weekend-worldwide-33381" target="_blank">top performing numbers</a>. It is in fact, Marvel Studios&#39; best-performing movie till date as Black Panther continues to rake in the moolah. On March 19, we reported that&nbsp;Chadwick Boseman starrer&nbsp;Black Panther&nbsp;has continued to be on the top spot in its<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/black-panther-surpasses-tomb-raider-for-fifth-box-office-crown-36403" target="_blank"> fifth consecutive weekend with $27 million</a> from 3,834 locations in the United States.<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/entertainment-black-panthers-album-tops-billboard-200-chart-33362" target="_blank"> Also Read:&nbsp;Black Panther&#39;s album tops Billboard 200 Chart</a>

As <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/oscars-2018-guillermo-del-toro-wins-best-director-for-the-shape-of-water-34690" target="_blank">Guillermo del Toro&#39;s</a> new movie Pacific Rim: Uprising released today, fans of the movie franchise feel that it might be able to topple the Black Panther&#39;s dominance on the box-office.&nbsp;

The original Pacific Rim was helmed by the Mexican director while the sequel is produced by him. Del Toro handed over the directorial duties to&nbsp;TV creative Steven S DeKnight (Spartacus, Smallville) for the sequel.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/black-panther-review-the-film-claws-its-way-into-the-white-dominated-superhero-universe-33034" target="_blank">Also Read:&nbsp;Black Panther review: The film claws its way into the white-dominated superhero universe</a>

&quot;As Black Panther has week after week dispatched a string of high profile newcomers, Pacific Rim likely has the goods to unseat the undisputed king of the box office,&quot; Paul Dergarabedian, senior analyst at comScore, told AFP.

&quot;It&#39;s a testament to the power of Black Panther that at six weeks into its run it still has everyone wondering if it could lead the charge once again.&quot;

The sequel is set 10 years later and follows a new generation of pilots of the first film&#39;s giant &quot;Jaeger&quot; military mechanoids - don&#39;t call them robots - fending off the truly enormous Kaiju monsters aiming to end humanity. Most importantly, it centres around&nbsp;Star Wars sensation John Boyega, whose starring parts since alien attack thriller Attack the Block in 2011 have helped amass an impressive US$3.4 billion worldwide. Boyega plays Jake Pentecost, the son of Idris Elba&#39;s character Stacker, who gave up his life to save the world in the first film.

Black Panther is one of the highest-grossing films of all-time and became the first movie since James Cameron’s Avatar to maintain the number 1 spot for five consecutive weekends

Ever since Black Panther released, it has continued to dominate the worldwide box office with over the top performing numbers. It is in fact, Marvel Studios' best-performing movie till date as Black Panther continues to rake in the moolah. On March 19, we reported that Chadwick Boseman starrer Black Panther has continued to be on the top spot in its fifth consecutive weekend with $27 million from 3,834 locations in the United States. Also Read: Black Panther's album tops Billboard 200 Chart As Guillermo del Toro's new movie Pacific Rim: Uprising released today, fans of the movie franchise feel that it might be able to topple the Black Panther's dominance on the box-office. The original Pacific Rim was helmed by the Mexican director while the sequel is produced by him. Del Toro handed over the directorial duties to TV creative Steven S DeKnight (Spartacus, Smallville) for the sequel. Also Read: Black Panther review: The film claws its way into the white-dominated superhero universe "As Black Panther has week after week dispatched a string of high profile newcomers, Pacific Rim likely has the goods to unseat the undisputed king of the box office," Paul Dergarabedian, senior analyst at comScore, told AFP. "It's a testament to the power of Black Panther that at six weeks into its run it still has everyone wondering if it could lead the charge once again." The sequel is set 10 years later and follows a new generation of pilots of the first film's giant "Jaeger" military mechanoids - don't call them robots - fending off the truly enormous Kaiju monsters aiming to end humanity. Most importantly, it centres around Star Wars sensation John Boyega, whose starring parts since alien attack thriller Attack the Block in 2011 have helped amass an impressive US$3.4 billion worldwide. Boyega plays Jake Pentecost, the son of Idris Elba's character Stacker, who gave up his life to save the world in the first film.

Will 'Pacific Rim Uprising' end 'Black Panther's domination at the box office?

Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety starring&nbsp;Kartik Aaryan, Nushrat Bharucha and Sunny Singh Nijjar&nbsp;enjoying a great run at the box office -- having collected&nbsp;Rs 73.56 crore so far.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SonuKeTituKiSweety?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SonuKeTituKiSweety</a> continues its HEROIC RUN... [Week 2] Fri 5.83 cr, Sat 6.55 cr, Sun 7.02 cr, Mon 2.71 cr, Tue 2.62 cr, Wed 2.59 cr. Total: ₹ 73.26 cr. India biz... SUPER-HIT... <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SKTKS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SKTKS</a>
&mdash; taran adarsh (@taran_adarsh) <a href="https://twitter.com/taran_adarsh/status/971645332860710913?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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It is said that the film is performing better than the new released. Just yesterday, the film earned&nbsp;Rs 2.59 crore and is expected to&nbsp;cross Rs 75 crore mark today at the box office.

Directed Luv Ranjan, Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety has managed to strike the chord with the audience who have previously enjoyed the trio in Pyar Ka Punnchnama movies.&nbsp;The film is produced by Krishan Kumar and Bhushan Kumar under the banner of T-Series along with Ankur Garg.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

While most called the film a light-hearted comedy, some felt that it targeted the woman protagonist and as such the entire gender

Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety starring Kartik Aaryan, Nushrat Bharucha and Sunny Singh Nijjar enjoying a great run at the box office -- having collected Rs 73.56 crore so far. #SonuKeTituKiSweety continues its HEROIC RUN... [Week 2] Fri 5.83 cr, Sat 6.55 cr, Sun 7.02 cr, Mon 2.71 cr, Tue 2.62 cr, Wed 2.59 cr. Total: ₹ 73.26 cr. India biz... SUPER-HIT... #SKTKS — taran adarsh (@taran_adarsh) March 8, 2018 × It is said that the film is performing better than the new released. Just yesterday, the film earned Rs 2.59 crore and is expected to cross Rs 75 crore mark today at the box office. Directed Luv Ranjan, Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety has managed to strike the chord with the audience who have previously enjoyed the trio in Pyar Ka Punnchnama movies. The film is produced by Krishan Kumar and Bhushan Kumar under the banner of T-Series along with Ankur Garg.

'Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety' box-office collection: Continues steady run, earns Rs 73.26 crore

Earning great reviews for its storyline, acting and presentation, Marvel&#39;s Black Panther also proves itself at the box office.&nbsp;

With actor Chadwick Boseman in the lead role, the Disney-Marvel movie has become the highest opening Hollywood debut superhero film in India.&nbsp;The film has opened to approximately Rs 15 crore weekend at the Indian box office. This is also the biggest opening for any Hollywood film in India in 2018.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BlackPanther?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BlackPanther</a> emerged the first choice of moviegoers... Fared well in its opening weekend... Thu previews + Fri 5.60 cr, Sat 6.65 cr, Sun 7.10 cr. Total: ₹ 19.35 cr Nett BOC&hellip; Gross BOC: ₹ 24.81 cr. India biz... Note: Hindi + English.
&mdash; taran adarsh (@taran_adarsh) <a href="https://twitter.com/taran_adarsh/status/965520017293901824?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2018</a></blockquote>
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In the United States, the film has received&nbsp;the fifth-biggest opening of all time by raking in a whopping $192 million (Rs 1239.45 crore) in the first weekend.

Black Panther directed by&nbsp;African-American Ryan Coogler has broken all previous records.&nbsp;

Interestingly, the film&nbsp;Black Panther is the first Marvel film to be led by a person of colour -- Chadwick Boseman -- and featuring a virtually all-black cast with Michael B Jordan, Lupita Nyong&rsquo;o and Danai Gurira, with Andy Serkis and Martin Freeman being a few exceptions.

&nbsp;

Marvel superhero flick Black Panther has become the highest opening Hollywood debut superhero film in India

Earning great reviews for its storyline, acting and presentation, Marvel's Black Panther also proves itself at the box office. With actor Chadwick Boseman in the lead role, the Disney-Marvel movie has become the highest opening Hollywood debut superhero film in India. The film has opened to approximately Rs 15 crore weekend at the Indian box office. This is also the biggest opening for any Hollywood film in India in 2018. #BlackPanther emerged the first choice of moviegoers... Fared well in its opening weekend... Thu previews + Fri 5.60 cr, Sat 6.65 cr, Sun 7.10 cr. Total: ₹ 19.35 cr Nett BOC… Gross BOC: ₹ 24.81 cr. India biz... Note: Hindi + English. — taran adarsh (@taran_adarsh) February 19, 2018 × In the United States, the film has received the fifth-biggest opening of all time by raking in a whopping $192 million (Rs 1239.45 crore) in the first weekend. Black Panther directed by African-American Ryan Coogler has broken all previous records. Interestingly, the film Black Panther is the first Marvel film to be led by a person of colour -- Chadwick Boseman -- and featuring a virtually all-black cast with Michael B Jordan, Lupita Nyong’o and Danai Gurira, with Andy Serkis and Martin Freeman being a few exceptions.

Marvel's 'Black Panther' collects record Rs 1240 cr in opening weekend worldwide

Anushka Shetty seems to be in a good phase of her career after a&nbsp;successful stint in &quot;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/life-fun/baahubali-2-becomes-first-indian-movie-to-earn-rs-1500-crore-worldwide-15789" target="_blank">Baahubali</a>&quot;&nbsp;with Prabhas.&nbsp;

Now her latest release &quot;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-bhaagamathie-trailer-anushka-shettys-much-awaited-film-looks-eerie-and-intruiging-28877" target="_blank">Bhaagmathie</a>&quot; has recorded a terrific&nbsp;opening worldwide -- releasing on January 26.&nbsp;

The film grossed a whopping Rs 12 crore from its Telugu version alone on the first day. It is the second biggest opening for Anushka whose &quot;Rudhramadevi&quot;&nbsp;grossed around Rs 12.5 crore on the first day.

What is to be noted, that while &quot;Rudhramadevi&quot;&nbsp;also featured Rana Daggubati and Allu Arjun, &quot;Bhaagmathie&quot;&nbsp;purely works on the merit of its content and Anushka&rsquo;s popularity among the masses.

Trade analysts, in fact, believe that &quot;Bhaagmathie&quot;&nbsp;might end up as the highest grossing film of Anushka&rsquo;s career.

Directed by G Ashok, &quot;Bhaagmathie&quot;&nbsp;is a horror-thriller. The film has done exceptional business in the US where it has already crossed&nbsp;half a million mark, becoming the first woman-centric film to rake in such moolah. According to trade analyst Taran Adarsh, the film as of Saturday made Rs 3.44 crore in the US.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bhaagamathie?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bhaagamathie</a> is doing WONDERFUL biz in USA... Crosses half-million mark... 
Previews + Fri $ 279,299 
Sat $ 261,433 
Total: $ 540,732 [₹ 3.44 cr]<a href="https://twitter.com/Rentrak?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Rentrak</a>
&mdash; taran adarsh (@taran_adarsh) <a href="https://twitter.com/taran_adarsh/status/957635585987854336?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The film also released in Tamil and managed to do decent business in Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

It might even become Anushka Shetty's career's highest grossing film

Anushka Shetty seems to be in a good phase of her career after a successful stint in "Baahubali" with Prabhas. Now her latest release "Bhaagmathie" has recorded a terrific opening worldwide -- releasing on January 26. The film grossed a whopping Rs 12 crore from its Telugu version alone on the first day. It is the second biggest opening for Anushka whose "Rudhramadevi" grossed around Rs 12.5 crore on the first day. What is to be noted, that while "Rudhramadevi" also featured Rana Daggubati and Allu Arjun, "Bhaagmathie" purely works on the merit of its content and Anushka’s popularity among the masses. Trade analysts, in fact, believe that "Bhaagmathie" might end up as the highest grossing film of Anushka’s career. Directed by G Ashok, "Bhaagmathie" is a horror-thriller. The film has done exceptional business in the US where it has already crossed half a million mark, becoming the first woman-centric film to rake in such moolah. According to trade analyst Taran Adarsh, the film as of Saturday made Rs 3.44 crore in the US. #Bhaagamathie is doing WONDERFUL biz in USA... Crosses half-million mark... Previews + Fri $ 279,299 Sat $ 261,433 Total: $ 540,732 [₹ 3.44 cr]@Rentrak — taran adarsh (@taran_adarsh) January 28, 2018 × The film also released in Tamil and managed to do decent business in Tamil Nadu.

Anushka Shetty's 'Bhaagmathie' registers record opening

Ajay Devgan, Ileana D&#39;Cruz and Emraan Hashmi starrer Baadshaho released this Friday in cinemas along with Shubh Mangal Savdhaan.&nbsp;

Baadshaho had an opening collection of 13.03 crore. Ajay Devgan&#39;s Baadshaho didn&#39;t do well on people&#39;s expectations as&nbsp;per audience reactions and&nbsp;movie reviews.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Baadshaho?src=hash">#Baadshaho</a> has a ROCKING Sat... Fri 12.03 cr, Sat 15.60 cr. Total: ? 27.63 cr. India biz.
&mdash; taran adarsh (@taran_adarsh) <a href="https://twitter.com/taran_adarsh/status/904207930836189184">September 3, 2017</a></blockquote>
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Ayushman Khurrana&#39;s&nbsp;Shubh Mangal Saavdhan got slammed by Baadshaho with opening day&nbsp;collection of 2.71 crore. &nbsp;

The film showed excellent growth on the second day grossing 5.56 crore.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ShubhMangalSaavdhan?src=hash">#ShubhMangalSaavdhan</a> has EXCELLENT Sat... Biz doubles actually... Fri 2.71 cr, Sat 5.56 cr. Total: ? 8.27 cr. India biz.
&mdash; taran adarsh (@taran_adarsh) <a href="https://twitter.com/taran_adarsh/status/904224123894636545">September 3, 2017</a></blockquote>
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Top 5 Bollywood openers, 2017:

1. Baahubali 2- Rs 41 cr 
2. Tubelight- Rs 21.15 cr 
3. Raees- Rs 20.42 cr 
4. Jab Harry Met Sejal- Rs 15.25 cr 
5. JollyLLB 2- Rs 13.20 cr

Ajay Devgan's much awaited film of the year released this Friday along with Ayushman's Shubh Mangal Savdhaan

Ajay Devgan, Ileana D'Cruz and Emraan Hashmi starrer Baadshaho released this Friday in cinemas along with Shubh Mangal Savdhaan. Baadshaho had an opening collection of 13.03 crore. Ajay Devgan's Baadshaho didn't do well on people's expectations as per audience reactions and movie reviews. #Baadshaho has a ROCKING Sat... Fri 12.03 cr, Sat 15.60 cr. Total: ? 27.63 cr. India biz. — taran adarsh (@taran_adarsh) September 3, 2017 × Ayushman Khurrana's Shubh Mangal Saavdhan got slammed by Baadshaho with opening day collection of 2.71 crore. The film showed excellent growth on the second day grossing 5.56 crore. #ShubhMangalSaavdhan has EXCELLENT Sat... Biz doubles actually... Fri 2.71 cr, Sat 5.56 cr. Total: ? 8.27 cr. India biz. — taran adarsh (@taran_adarsh) September 3, 2017 × Top 5 Bollywood openers, 2017: 1. Baahubali 2- Rs 41 cr 2. Tubelight- Rs 21.15 cr 3. Raees- Rs 20.42 cr 4. Jab Harry Met Sejal- Rs 15.25 cr 5. JollyLLB 2- Rs 13.20 cr

Baadshaho and Shubh Mangal Savdhaan opening week collection: Movies didn't come up to the expectation

Salman Khan is easily one of the most bankable actors in the Bollywood industry today. His last year&#39;s Eid release titled&nbsp;Sultan, broke all records and became an All Time Blockbuster after entering the Rs. 300 crore club.

This holiday on Eid, Salman&#39;s new movie titled Tubelight will release and fans will get to see the coming together of the hunk actor with director Kabir Khan, after EK Tha Tiger and most recent Bajrangi Bhaijaan.&nbsp;

<h2>Also Read:<a href="http://www.wionews.com/life-fun/salman-khan-fans-we-have-great-news-for-you-16040">&nbsp;Salman Khan fans, we have great news for you</a></h2>

&nbsp;

But the bigger issue remains: Whether Tubelight collections surpass the global hit Baahubali 2?

While fans on social media are constantly writing success stories of the movie, Salman in an interview to Firstpost said, &quot;I doubt that Tubelight will break Baahubali 2&rsquo;s record because the latter is one of the most freakish films that has been made. Hindi film-goers lapped up the film despite watching a dubbed version of it. It is because of the Hindi cine-goers that they have got these numbers. But as long as nobody loses money, I am fine. I don&rsquo;t feel the pressure.&quot;

The actor himself is currently on&nbsp;a promotional spree for his movie after the trailer release was met with hightened expectancy. Speaking in the interview, Salman pointed out how he still gets nervous before the release of his film. He elaborated: &ldquo;Yeah, but for different reasons. You do a film, you put in so much of hard work. That&rsquo;s okay, but the reason that you have signed the film is that you think it will be a sure short hit. Now, the film releases and it is a flop, that means your thinking has gone all wrong.&quot;

<h2>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/life-fun/baahubali-2-becomes-first-indian-movie-to-earn-rs-1500-crore-worldwide-15789">Baahubali 2 becomes first Indian movie to earn Rs 1,500 crore worldwide</a></h2>

&nbsp;

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="430" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/TqDvZqAfruY" width="970"></iframe>

Tubelight will hit theatres on June 25.

(WION)

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Salman Khan fans are already speculating an even grander reception to his upcoming movie

Salman Khan is easily one of the most bankable actors in the Bollywood industry today. His last year's Eid release titled Sultan, broke all records and became an All Time Blockbuster after entering the Rs. 300 crore club. This holiday on Eid, Salman's new movie titled Tubelight will release and fans will get to see the coming together of the hunk actor with director Kabir Khan, after EK Tha Tiger and most recent Bajrangi Bhaijaan. Also Read: Salman Khan fans, we have great news for you But the bigger issue remains: Whether Tubelight collections surpass the global hit Baahubali 2? While fans on social media are constantly writing success stories of the movie, Salman in an interview to Firstpost said, "I doubt that Tubelight will break Baahubali 2’s record because the latter is one of the most freakish films that has been made. Hindi film-goers lapped up the film despite watching a dubbed version of it. It is because of the Hindi cine-goers that they have got these numbers. But as long as nobody loses money, I am fine. I don’t feel the pressure." The actor himself is currently on a promotional spree for his movie after the trailer release was met with hightened expectancy. Speaking in the interview, Salman pointed out how he still gets nervous before the release of his film. He elaborated: “Yeah, but for different reasons. You do a film, you put in so much of hard work. That’s okay, but the reason that you have signed the film is that you think it will be a sure short hit. Now, the film releases and it is a flop, that means your thinking has gone all wrong." Also Read: Baahubali 2 becomes first Indian movie to earn Rs 1,500 crore worldwide Tubelight will hit theatres on June 25. (WION)

Salman Khan on whether Tubelight will cross Baahubali 2's collections

The latest blockbuster installment of the &quot;Star Wars&quot; saga dominated box offices in North America for a second weekend straight, according to early holiday estimates released Sunday.

&quot;Rogue One: A Star Wars Story&quot; raked in $71.55 million Friday-Sunday, Exhibitor Relations said, bringing its total bounty for the region to $293 million.

Cinemas in the United States and Canada saw a slew of new movies open over the Christmas holiday weekend.

&quot;Sing,&quot; an animated musical comedy featuring the voices of several A-listers including Matthew McConaughey and Reese Witherspoon, burst into second place with $35 million.

The third spot went to &quot;Passengers,&quot; a sci-fi fantasy starring Jennifer Lawrence and Chris Pratt, who play two astronauts accidentally awakened from hibernation on a deep-space mission. It pulled in $14.3 million.

Claiming fourth was &quot;Assassin&#39;s Creed,&quot; which took in $10.3 million, based on the eponymous video game.

At number five was &quot;Why Him?&quot; about a dad feuding with his daughter&#39;s boyfriend, which opened with $9.8 million.

That means &quot;Moana,&quot; a computer-animated musical fantasy about a brave Polynesian teenager, slipped to sixth place from number two, pulling in another $6.5 million.&nbsp;

The film had previously topped the box office for three weekends and has now grossed $179.5 million to date.

Opening at number eight was &quot;Collateral Beauty,&quot; a sentimental drama featuring Will Smith. It managed to pull in $3.6 million.

The number nine spot went to Hindi-language sports drama &quot;Dangal,&quot; which opened with $3.3 million.&nbsp;

Rounding out the top 10 was &quot;Manchester by the Sea,&quot; down from sixth place a week before. It pulled in $3.1 million, bringing its haul to $20 million.

(AFP)

'Rogue One: A Star Wars Story' raked in $71.55 million Friday-Sunday

The latest blockbuster installment of the "Star Wars" saga dominated box offices in North America for a second weekend straight, according to early holiday estimates released Sunday. "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story" raked in $71.55 million Friday-Sunday, Exhibitor Relations said, bringing its total bounty for the region to $293 million. Cinemas in the United States and Canada saw a slew of new movies open over the Christmas holiday weekend. "Sing," an animated musical comedy featuring the voices of several A-listers including Matthew McConaughey and Reese Witherspoon, burst into second place with $35 million. The third spot went to "Passengers," a sci-fi fantasy starring Jennifer Lawrence and Chris Pratt, who play two astronauts accidentally awakened from hibernation on a deep-space mission. It pulled in $14.3 million. Claiming fourth was "Assassin's Creed," which took in $10.3 million, based on the eponymous video game. At number five was "Why Him?" about a dad feuding with his daughter's boyfriend, which opened with $9.8 million. That means "Moana," a computer-animated musical fantasy about a brave Polynesian teenager, slipped to sixth place from number two, pulling in another $6.5 million. The film had previously topped the box office for three weekends and has now grossed $179.5 million to date. Opening at number eight was "Collateral Beauty," a sentimental drama featuring Will Smith. It managed to pull in $3.6 million. The number nine spot went to Hindi-language sports drama "Dangal," which opened with $3.3 million. Rounding out the top 10 was "Manchester by the Sea," down from sixth place a week before. It pulled in $3.1 million, bringing its haul to $20 million. (AFP)

'Rogue One' maintains stellar course at box office

Suicide Squad&nbsp;held on for a third straight week as the top money-maker at North American box offices, easily brushing off the competition, industry estimates showed yesterday. Ben-Hur, meanwhile, bombed on its debut. 
 
Suicide Squad&nbsp;hasn&#39;t been a favourite with critics, but moviegoers plunked down $20.7 million over the weekend to see Will Smith, Jared Leto and Margot Robbie play a band of criminals hired to carry out secret missions. 
 
Since it opened three weeks ago, the movie has earned $262.3 million. 
 
Trailing at number two for a second week was Sausage Party, the raunchy animated comedy with Seth Rogan as the leading voice. It made $15.3 million, down from last week&#39;s $34.3 million take. 
 
War Dogs, a new release with Jonah Hill and Miles Teller, opened in third place with $14.3 million in ticket sales its first weekend out. 
 
A comedy-drama about two arms dealers in over their heads supplying weapons to US forces in Iraq, its blend of light entertainment and serious subject matter got mixed reviews. 
 
Kubo and the Two Strings&nbsp;landed in fourth place on its first weekend out, pulling in $12.6 million. 
 
Praised as visually stunning, the 3-D stop-motion adventure fantasy set in ancient Japan is about a one-eyed boy on a quest who must battle the gods with a magical instrument. 
 
The remake of Ben-Hur, meanwhile, went down in flames its debut weekend in North American theaters, earning only $11.4 million and coming in fifth place. 
 
The $100 million epic with Jack Huston as the chariot racing Jewish nobleman Judah Ben-Hur &quot;derailed spectacularly&quot; because it was apparently unable to get beyond its core Christian audience, Variety said. 
 
Rounding out the top ten films of the weekend are: 
 
- Pete&#39;s Dragon&nbsp;($11.3 million) 
 
- Bad Moms&nbsp;($8.1 million) 
 
- Jason Bourne&nbsp;($8 million) 
 
- The Secret Life of Pets&nbsp;($5.8 million) 
 
- Florence Foster Jenkins&nbsp;($4.3 million) 
 
(AFP)

'Suicide Squad' hasn't been a favourite with critics, but the movie has earned $262.3 million since it opened three weeks ago

Suicide Squad held on for a third straight week as the top money-maker at North American box offices, easily brushing off the competition, industry estimates showed yesterday. Ben-Hur, meanwhile, bombed on its debut. Suicide Squad hasn't been a favourite with critics, but moviegoers plunked down $20.7 million over the weekend to see Will Smith, Jared Leto and Margot Robbie play a band of criminals hired to carry out secret missions. Since it opened three weeks ago, the movie has earned $262.3 million. Trailing at number two for a second week was Sausage Party, the raunchy animated comedy with Seth Rogan as the leading voice. It made $15.3 million, down from last week's $34.3 million take. War Dogs, a new release with Jonah Hill and Miles Teller, opened in third place with $14.3 million in ticket sales its first weekend out. A comedy-drama about two arms dealers in over their heads supplying weapons to US forces in Iraq, its blend of light entertainment and serious subject matter got mixed reviews. Kubo and the Two Strings landed in fourth place on its first weekend out, pulling in $12.6 million. Praised as visually stunning, the 3-D stop-motion adventure fantasy set in ancient Japan is about a one-eyed boy on a quest who must battle the gods with a magical instrument. The remake of Ben-Hur, meanwhile, went down in flames its debut weekend in North American theaters, earning only $11.4 million and coming in fifth place. The $100 million epic with Jack Huston as the chariot racing Jewish nobleman Judah Ben-Hur "derailed spectacularly" because it was apparently unable to get beyond its core Christian audience, Variety said. Rounding out the top ten films of the weekend are: - Pete's Dragon ($11.3 million) - Bad Moms ($8.1 million) - Jason Bourne ($8 million) - The Secret Life of Pets ($5.8 million) - Florence Foster Jenkins ($4.3 million) (AFP)

'Suicide Squad' tops box office, 'Ben-Hur' bombs

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows&nbsp;finished on top of the U.S. box office this weekend, grossing more than $35 million in the movie following the crime-fighting reptiles Michelangelo, Donatello, Leonardo, and Raphael as they battle bigger and meaner villains.

&quot;Ninja Turtles&quot;, which stars Megan Fox and Will Arnett, opened on June 3 in 4071 theaters.

In its second week in theaters, &quot;X-Men Apocalypse&quot; made more than $22 million, totaling $116 million for its run, according to Box Office Mojo website.

The romantic drama &quot;Me Before You&quot; grossed more than $18, million in its opening weekend, the website reported.

The film, starring Emilia Clarke and Sam Claflin, follows the the romance between a paralyzed man who has decided to commit suicide and his caregiver.

&quot;Alice Through the Looking Glass&quot; took in $10.6 million, to bring the film starring Johnny Depp and Sacha Baron Cohen $50.7 million for its two-week run, according to Box Office Mojo.

And &quot;Angry Birds&quot; rounded out the top five, pulling in $9.75 million over the weekend for a gross of $86.6 million over three weeks.

?"Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows" finished on top of the U.S. box office this weekend, grossing more than $35 million in the movie following the crime-fighting reptiles

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows finished on top of the U.S. box office this weekend, grossing more than $35 million in the movie following the crime-fighting reptiles Michelangelo, Donatello, Leonardo, and Raphael as they battle bigger and meaner villains. "Ninja Turtles", which stars Megan Fox and Will Arnett, opened on June 3 in 4071 theaters. In its second week in theaters, "X-Men Apocalypse" made more than $22 million, totaling $116 million for its run, according to Box Office Mojo website. The romantic drama "Me Before You" grossed more than $18, million in its opening weekend, the website reported. The film, starring Emilia Clarke and Sam Claflin, follows the the romance between a paralyzed man who has decided to commit suicide and his caregiver. "Alice Through the Looking Glass" took in $10.6 million, to bring the film starring Johnny Depp and Sacha Baron Cohen $50.7 million for its two-week run, according to Box Office Mojo. And "Angry Birds" rounded out the top five, pulling in $9.75 million over the weekend for a gross of $86.6 million over three weeks.

Ninja Turtles take first place and $35 million at weekend box office

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