Critics and their harsh words be damned (myself included), X-Men Origins: Wolverine is resonating with audiences to the tune of an estimated $35 million take on Friday and a hot start for the summer movie season.
The only non-sequels that opened higher in May are also superhero-driven effects spectaculars: Iron Man with $38.7 million and Spider-Man with $39.4 million.
Compared to the previous three X-Men films, Wolverine topped both of Brian Singer’s efforts for opening day business but fell short of The Last Stand’s impressive $45.1 million.
At its current pace and 4099 screens, X-Men Origins: Wolverine could end up in the $85 to $90 million range when the weekend wraps up. Repeat and new business next weekend will be challenged by Star Trek who “geek” audiences will undoubtedly flock to — and for good reason.
Read my X-Men Origins: Wolverine review.
