John Fithian, longtime head of the National Association of Theatre Owners, has received the Lifetime Achievement Award from Variety of Southern California as he prepares to step down after overseeing NATO through decades of transition.
The award from the children’s charity goes each year to an individual who has made a significant and profound charitable impact over the course of their career.
Fithian was named NATO president and CEO in 2000 after serving as outside counsel. Last fall, he announced plans to retire effective May 1 and will pass the baton to new chief Michael O’Leary at CinemaCon in Las Vegas later this month.
As NATO boss, Fithian guided theater owners through a transition to digital projection, fighting movie theft, implementing a voluntary movie ratings system, advocating for a healthy theatrical release window and maintaining strong relationships with creatives, producers, distributors and other trade organizations, including the Motion Picture Association. He...
The award from the children’s charity goes each year to an individual who has made a significant and profound charitable impact over the course of their career.
Fithian was named NATO president and CEO in 2000 after serving as outside counsel. Last fall, he announced plans to retire effective May 1 and will pass the baton to new chief Michael O’Leary at CinemaCon in Las Vegas later this month.
As NATO boss, Fithian guided theater owners through a transition to digital projection, fighting movie theft, implementing a voluntary movie ratings system, advocating for a healthy theatrical release window and maintaining strong relationships with creatives, producers, distributors and other trade organizations, including the Motion Picture Association. He...
- 4/5/2023
- by Jill Goldsmith
- Deadline Film + TV
Universal Pictures announced Wednesday that Nicholas Carpou will assume the role of president of domestic distribution for the studio starting at the beginning of 2015. He will assume the role formerly occupied by Nikki Rocco, who announced her retirement in April. Rocco will move into a senior advisory role and stay with Universal through 2016. Under Rocco's leadership in 2013, Universal celebrated its best year ever at the domestic box office, with total grosses of $1.42 billion, at the same time it crossed the $1 billion marker faster than any other time in its history. Also read: Nikki Rocco Retiring From Universal Pictures...
- 10/1/2014
- by Gina Hall
- The Wrap
Two of Hollywood marquee tough guys — Liam Neeson and Denzel Washington – will battle at the box office over the next couple weeks. Neeson will get the first punch in Friday, when he opens in Universal Pictures’ R-rated thriller “A Walk Among the Tombstones.” Washington will open one week later in Sony's “The Equalizer,” another R-rated thriller. See photos: 20 of Denzel Washington and Liam Neeson's Biggest Box Office Hits “I'm glad we're going first,” said Universal's distribution chief Nikki Rocco. Both actors have built broad and reliable fan bases built on delivering in similar rough-and-tumble films, and both movies are aimed primarily.
- 9/19/2014
- by Todd Cunningham
- The Wrap
Luc Besson's "Lucy" proved mind can overpower muscle, topping a remake of "Hercules" by director Brett Ratner at the box office on the weekend.
According to studio estimates Sunday, the Universal Pictures-released movie starring Scarlett Johansson as an accidental psychokinetic took in $44 million in North American movie theaters over the weekend.
"Hercules," starring Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson and produced by Paramount Pictures and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, brought down an estimated $29 million.
Universal's president of domestic distribution, Nikki Rocco, says audiences came out for the unique story and to see Johansson in a leading action role.
Top 10 at the Weekend Box Office
1. "Lucy" - $44.0 M
2. "Hercules" - $29.0 M
3. "Dawn of the Planet of the Apes" - $16.4 M
4. "The Purge: Anarchy" - $9.9 M
5. "Planes: Fire & Rescue" - $9.3 M
6. "Sex Tape Sony $6.0 M
7. "Transformers: Age of Extinction" - $4.6 M
8. "And So It Goes" - $4.5 M
9. "Tammy" - $3.4 M
10. "A Most Wanted Man" -...
According to studio estimates Sunday, the Universal Pictures-released movie starring Scarlett Johansson as an accidental psychokinetic took in $44 million in North American movie theaters over the weekend.
"Hercules," starring Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson and produced by Paramount Pictures and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, brought down an estimated $29 million.
Universal's president of domestic distribution, Nikki Rocco, says audiences came out for the unique story and to see Johansson in a leading action role.
Top 10 at the Weekend Box Office
1. "Lucy" - $44.0 M
2. "Hercules" - $29.0 M
3. "Dawn of the Planet of the Apes" - $16.4 M
4. "The Purge: Anarchy" - $9.9 M
5. "Planes: Fire & Rescue" - $9.3 M
6. "Sex Tape Sony $6.0 M
7. "Transformers: Age of Extinction" - $4.6 M
8. "And So It Goes" - $4.5 M
9. "Tammy" - $3.4 M
10. "A Most Wanted Man" -...
- 7/27/2014
- by The Associated Press
- Moviefone
When the first --and only--female distribution chief at a major studio lasts for 18 years at her job, she's damned good at it. Well, Universal Pictures distribution president Nikki Rocco is finally stepping down at the end of 2014 after 47 years at the studio--it's the only place she ever worked. She's a lifer, something that doesn't happen that much anymore. (The other studio distribution player is Warner Bros. International exec Veronika Kwan Vandenberg; Paramount marketing czar Megan Colligan also weighs in on special distribution strategies.) While Rocco survived many management changes, her most recent boss, co-chairman Adam Fogelson, was let go last year, leaving Donna Langley as solo Universal Pictures chair. Now NBCUni exec Jeff Shell is chairman of Universal Filmed Entertainment; he'll likely move up her lieutenant Nicholas Carpou. It will be fascinating to see how NBC Universal owner Comcast --which has made a bid to buy Time Warner...
- 4/22/2014
- by Anne Thompson
- Thompson on Hollywood
The longtime president of distribution is to step down at the end of 2014 after 18 years in the role.
Rocco bears the distinction of being the first woman to hold the role of president of a major studio’s theatrical distribution operations.
Following her retirement she will become a consultant to Universal. Studio top brass are considering Rocco’s successor and it is understood they are likely to promote from within.
Rocco began her career at the studio in 1967 as a 17-year-old high school senior and has served 47 years with the company.
After completing a paid training programme during her senior year in high school, she joined Universal’s New York office and upon graduation was hired as a full-time assistant in the sales department.
In 1981 Rocco relocated to Los Angeles in an administrative assistant role to Universal’s general sales manager. She was promoted to vice-president of distribution in 1984 and rose again in 1990 to the newly created...
Rocco bears the distinction of being the first woman to hold the role of president of a major studio’s theatrical distribution operations.
Following her retirement she will become a consultant to Universal. Studio top brass are considering Rocco’s successor and it is understood they are likely to promote from within.
Rocco began her career at the studio in 1967 as a 17-year-old high school senior and has served 47 years with the company.
After completing a paid training programme during her senior year in high school, she joined Universal’s New York office and upon graduation was hired as a full-time assistant in the sales department.
In 1981 Rocco relocated to Los Angeles in an administrative assistant role to Universal’s general sales manager. She was promoted to vice-president of distribution in 1984 and rose again in 1990 to the newly created...
- 4/22/2014
- by jeremykay67@gmail.com (Jeremy Kay)
- ScreenDaily
The longtime president of distribution is to step down at the end of 2014 after 18 years in the role.
Rocco bears the distinction of being the first woman to hold the role of president of a major studio’s theatrical distribution operations.
Following her retirement she will become a consultant to Universal. Studio top brass are considering Rocco’s successor and it is understood they are likely to promote from within.
Rocco began her career at the studio in 1967 as a 17-year-old high school senior and has served 47 years with the company.
After completing a paid training programme during her senior year in high school, she joined Universal’s New York office and upon graduation was hired as a full-time assistant in the sales department.
In 1981 Rocco relocated to Los Angeles in an administrative assistant role to Universal’s general sales manager. She was promoted to vice-president of distribution in 1984 and rose again in 1990 to the newly created...
Rocco bears the distinction of being the first woman to hold the role of president of a major studio’s theatrical distribution operations.
Following her retirement she will become a consultant to Universal. Studio top brass are considering Rocco’s successor and it is understood they are likely to promote from within.
Rocco began her career at the studio in 1967 as a 17-year-old high school senior and has served 47 years with the company.
After completing a paid training programme during her senior year in high school, she joined Universal’s New York office and upon graduation was hired as a full-time assistant in the sales department.
In 1981 Rocco relocated to Los Angeles in an administrative assistant role to Universal’s general sales manager. She was promoted to vice-president of distribution in 1984 and rose again in 1990 to the newly created...
- 4/22/2014
- by jeremykay67@gmail.com (Jeremy Kay)
- ScreenDaily
Nikki Rocco, the first woman ever to head distribution at a major studio, is retiring at the end of the year as Universal Pictures’ president of domestic distribution, the studio announced Tuesday. Rocco, who has held the post since 1996, will become a consultant for the studio, which is expected to name Nicholas Carpou, who is currently co-president of distribution, to succeed her. Rocco, who began her career at the studio in 1967, when she was a 17-year-old high school senior, has served 47 years with the company. Under Rocco’s leadership, Universal had its best year ever
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- 4/22/2014
- by Gregg Kilday
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Nikki Rocco, the the first woman ever to become president of a major studio's theatrical distribution operations, will retire as Universal Pictures president of domestic distribution after 47 years with the studio. Rocco began her career at the studio in 1967, while she was a 17-year-old high school senior. She is one of the longest-serving employees at Universal. She has served as president of domestic distribution since 1996. “Nikki Rocco is one of the hardest working, most loyal people I've ever known, and I've cherished every moment we have worked together at this company,” said NBCUniversal Vice Chairman Ron Meyer. “She has...
- 4/22/2014
- by Todd Cunningham
- The Wrap
Women made up a surprisingly high 57 percent of the record “Ride Along” audiences over the Martin Luther King holiday weekend. The movie’s tagline — “Propose to this cop’s sister? Rookie mistake” – and the film itself seemed tailored to males, but that’s not how it played. What’s behind that? “Maybe it’s Kevin Hart?” wondered Universal Pictures’ distribution chief Nikki Rocco. It was an educated guess, and very likely a good one. Also read: ‘Ride Along’ Shatters Mlk Weekend Box-Office Record The PG-13-rated “Ride Along” played more broadly in general than might have been expected. The audience was 50 percent African-American,...
- 1/20/2014
- by Todd Cunningham
- The Wrap
Vin Diesel ‘Riddick’ box office: Underwhelming domestic debut Universal’s distribution chief Nikki Rocco may have called Riddick‘s opening-weekend figures "a great result," but an estimated $18.7 million from 3,107 North American theaters — $2.5 million of that total from 314 IMAX locations — for an action-packed sequel starring Vin Diesel is a disappointing debut. In fact, if studio estimates for the September 6-8, 2013, weekend are on target, Riddick‘s per-theater average barely surpassed the $6,000 mark: $6,010 per location, to be exact. And even though it’s true that the weekend after Labor Day tends to be pathetically slow at the U.S./Canada box office, and that this year’s top-ten figures were 29% above last year’s, Riddick‘s box-office gross undeniably fell below expectations. (Photo: Vin Diesel in Riddick.) Box office pundits, for instance, had been predicting an opening north of $20 million for the $38 million-budgeted, independently financed sci-fi actioner. And Riddick‘s opening-weekend gross...
- 9/8/2013
- by Zac Gille
- Alt Film Guide
Kick-Ass 2's box office figures for its opening weekend in the Us were disappointing, according to Universal Pictures.
The comic book-inspired sequel generated $13.6 million, which saw it chart behind Lee Daniels' The Butler and We're the Millers in joint-third place with Elysium.
Photo Gallery - 'Kick-Ass 2':The figures represent a downturn compared to the original Kick-Ass's opening weekend, but with a budget of $28 million, the film is almost certain to be a profitable venture for Universal.
"We were disappointed we didn't match the opening of the first movie," The Hollywood Reporter quotes Universal president of distribution Nikki Rocco as saying.
"The good thing is that it represented very minimal risk for the studio, and the first film did very well in ancillary markets, so we'll see where this goes domestically and internationally."
Directed by Jeff Wadlow, Kick-Ass 2 launches in additional overseas territories this weekend.
The comic book-inspired sequel generated $13.6 million, which saw it chart behind Lee Daniels' The Butler and We're the Millers in joint-third place with Elysium.
Photo Gallery - 'Kick-Ass 2':The figures represent a downturn compared to the original Kick-Ass's opening weekend, but with a budget of $28 million, the film is almost certain to be a profitable venture for Universal.
"We were disappointed we didn't match the opening of the first movie," The Hollywood Reporter quotes Universal president of distribution Nikki Rocco as saying.
"The good thing is that it represented very minimal risk for the studio, and the first film did very well in ancillary markets, so we'll see where this goes domestically and internationally."
Directed by Jeff Wadlow, Kick-Ass 2 launches in additional overseas territories this weekend.
- 8/19/2013
- Digital Spy
In a sign of the times, Universal Pictures announced on Wednesday [17] that Mark Link will retire from his role as vp of print control in January 2014 after 38 years with the studio.
Current vp of business development and strategic planning Noah Bergman will succeed Link in the newly created position of vp of content services for domestic distribution, reporting to distribution president Nikki Rocco.
Link began his career at Universal in 1975 as a booker in the office at Jacksonville, Florida. He become vp of print control in 1999 and oversaw the transition from 35mm print to digital distribution.
“Throughout his career at Universal, [Link] has made wonderful contributions in many areas of distribution,” said Rocco.
In his new role Bergman will oversee both feature film fulfilment and content delivery strategy.
Current vp of business development and strategic planning Noah Bergman will succeed Link in the newly created position of vp of content services for domestic distribution, reporting to distribution president Nikki Rocco.
Link began his career at Universal in 1975 as a booker in the office at Jacksonville, Florida. He become vp of print control in 1999 and oversaw the transition from 35mm print to digital distribution.
“Throughout his career at Universal, [Link] has made wonderful contributions in many areas of distribution,” said Rocco.
In his new role Bergman will oversee both feature film fulfilment and content delivery strategy.
- 7/17/2013
- by jeremykay67@gmail.com (Jeremy Kay)
- ScreenDaily
By Lisa Richwine and Chris Michaud
May 26 (Reuters) - The speed demons of "Fast & Furious 6" raced ahead of the hard-partying "Hangover" gang in a battle between two male-oriented movie franchises, setting up the car chase sequel for a big holiday weekend win at U.S. and Canadian box offices.
"Fast & Furious 6" rang up an estimated $98.5 million in domestic ticket sales from Friday through Sunday and was speeding toward $122.5 million by the end of Monday's U.S. Memorial Day holiday, distributor Universal Pictures projected.
Comedy sequel "The Hangover Part III" brought in $42.4 million from Friday through Sunday, according to studio estimates, and was likely to finish with $64 million through Monday, after a Thursday opening.
Last weekend's box office leader, sci-fi sequel "Star Trek Into Darkness," fell to third place with $38 million through Sunday and was headed toward $48 million through Monday.
The movies charged up the North American box office, putting ticket...
May 26 (Reuters) - The speed demons of "Fast & Furious 6" raced ahead of the hard-partying "Hangover" gang in a battle between two male-oriented movie franchises, setting up the car chase sequel for a big holiday weekend win at U.S. and Canadian box offices.
"Fast & Furious 6" rang up an estimated $98.5 million in domestic ticket sales from Friday through Sunday and was speeding toward $122.5 million by the end of Monday's U.S. Memorial Day holiday, distributor Universal Pictures projected.
Comedy sequel "The Hangover Part III" brought in $42.4 million from Friday through Sunday, according to studio estimates, and was likely to finish with $64 million through Monday, after a Thursday opening.
Last weekend's box office leader, sci-fi sequel "Star Trek Into Darkness," fell to third place with $38 million through Sunday and was headed toward $48 million through Monday.
The movies charged up the North American box office, putting ticket...
- 5/26/2013
- by Reuters
- Huffington Post
Peter Levinsohn was named president and chief distribution officer of Universal Pictures on Wednesday, the studio announced. Levinsohn will be charged with overseeing worldwide home entertainment, new media and digital strategy, technology, and international and domestic television distribution. Levinsohn will work alongside Universal Pictures chairman Adam Fogelson, co-chairman Donna Langely and president Jimmy Horowitz on all aspects of the studio's business. Additionally, Levinsohn will be splitting biz development and strategic planning duties with Horowitz. Nikki Rocco will continue to head the company's North American theatrical distribution operations. Both executives will report to...
- 5/2/2013
- by Wrap Staff
- The Wrap
Exclusive… 2Nd Update: I’ve learned that Pete Levinsohn, president of Fox New Media and Digital Distribution for News Corp, wanted more of a domain at the studio but couldn’t convince Twentieth Century Fox film chairman Jim Gianopulos. So he’s leaving for a big Universal job – President and Chief Distribution Officer of Universal Pictures. In this role, Levinsohn will oversee worldwide home entertainment, new media and digital strategy, technology, and international and domestic television distribution. He will work alongside Universal Pictures Chairman Adam Fogelson, co-Chairman Donna Langley, and Universal Pictures President Jimmy Horowitz on all aspects of Universal’s business. Levinsohn and Horowitz will share responsibility for Universal’s business development and strategic planning division with Horowitz focusing on the production side. President of Domestic Theatrical Distribution Nikki Rocco’s job doesn’t change: she heads the company’s North American theatrical distribution operations reporting to Fogelson. Levinsohn...
- 5/2/2013
- by NIKKI FINKE, Editor in Chief
- Deadline Hollywood
It's going to be awesome to be able to watch Jurassic Park again on the big screen! Not only is Universal re-releasing the film in 3D, but it's also getting an IMAX run, which should be epic. It's going to be a great movie going experience for my kids. Jurassic Park is set to open up on April 5th. The IMAX run only lasts a week, and will end on the 12th. Here's a couple of TV spots that have been released that will remind you of how fun this movie is.
IMAX Corporation and Universal Pictures today announced that Steven Spielberg’s epic Jurassic Park will return to the big screen with a one-week 3D engagement in IMAX® theatres worldwide simultaneous with the film's wide release beginning April 5, 2013.
With his remastering of this epic film into a state-of-the-art 3D format, Steven Spielberg introduces the three-time Academy Award®-winning blockbuster...
IMAX Corporation and Universal Pictures today announced that Steven Spielberg’s epic Jurassic Park will return to the big screen with a one-week 3D engagement in IMAX® theatres worldwide simultaneous with the film's wide release beginning April 5, 2013.
With his remastering of this epic film into a state-of-the-art 3D format, Steven Spielberg introduces the three-time Academy Award®-winning blockbuster...
- 3/13/2013
- by Joey Paur
- GeekTyrant
Identity Thief has turned out to be the real thing at the North American box office.
The comedy starring Jason Bateman and Melissa McCarthy debuted at number one with a $36.6 million opening weekend, according to studio estimates.
Identity Thief opened solidly despite the winter storm that buried much of the U.S. Northeast. Distributor Universal Pictures estimates the storm might have choked off as much as 10 percent of the movie's business.
"It took such a chunk out of the business this weekend. But we can't control Mother Nature," said Nikki Rocco, Universal's head of distribution. "We probably could have hit $40 million if it weren't for the weather this weekend."
The previous weekend's top movie, the zombie romance Warm Bodies, fell to second place with $11.5 million. That raises its domestic total to $36.7 million.
The comedy starring Jason Bateman and Melissa McCarthy debuted at number one with a $36.6 million opening weekend, according to studio estimates.
Identity Thief opened solidly despite the winter storm that buried much of the U.S. Northeast. Distributor Universal Pictures estimates the storm might have choked off as much as 10 percent of the movie's business.
"It took such a chunk out of the business this weekend. But we can't control Mother Nature," said Nikki Rocco, Universal's head of distribution. "We probably could have hit $40 million if it weren't for the weather this weekend."
The previous weekend's top movie, the zombie romance Warm Bodies, fell to second place with $11.5 million. That raises its domestic total to $36.7 million.
- 2/11/2013
- by Cineplex.com and contributors
- Cineplex
Los Angeles (AP) — "Identity Thief" has turned out to be the real thing at the North American box office. The comedy starring Jason Bateman and Melissa McCarthy debuted at No. 1 with a $36.6 million opening weekend, according to studio estimates Sunday. "Identity Thief" opened solidly despite the winter storm that buried much of the U.S. Northeast. Distributor Universal Pictures estimates the storm might have choked off as much as 10 percent of the movie's business. "It took such a chunk out of the business this weekend. But we can't control Mother Nature," said Nikki Rocco, Universal's head of distribution....
- 2/10/2013
- by David Germain (AP)
- Hitfix
Thank you Universal! It was recently announced that not only will Steven Spielberg's Jurassic Park being returning to theaters in 3D, it will also get a week in IMAX theaters! I'm seriously excited about seeing this film on the big screen again, I'm more excited that my kids will get to see it on the big screen, and it will be the first time seeing it for them.
The movie is set to be re-released on April 5th, and the IMAX run will end on the 12th being replaced by Oblivion. President of distribution Nikki Rocco had this to say in a statement,
Jurassic Park is the quintessential film for fans to experience in IMAX 3D. Jurassic Park was groundbreaking when it was originally released, and The IMAX 3D Experience will allow today’s audiences to become fully immersed in one of the most breathtaking epics Universal has ever released.
The movie is set to be re-released on April 5th, and the IMAX run will end on the 12th being replaced by Oblivion. President of distribution Nikki Rocco had this to say in a statement,
Jurassic Park is the quintessential film for fans to experience in IMAX 3D. Jurassic Park was groundbreaking when it was originally released, and The IMAX 3D Experience will allow today’s audiences to become fully immersed in one of the most breathtaking epics Universal has ever released.
- 1/9/2013
- by Joey Paur
- GeekTyrant
Along with a standard 3D release of Jurassic Park this April, it has just been announced that the movie will receive a one-week 3D IMAX release:
Los Angeles, Jan. 9, 2013 – IMAX Corporation and Universal Pictures today announced that Steven Spielberg ‘s epic Jurassic Park will return to the big screen with a one-week 3D engagement in IMAX® theatres worldwide simultaneous with the film’s wide release beginning April 5, 2013.
With his remastering of this epic film into a state-of-the-art 3D format, Steven Spielberg introduces the three-time Academy Award®-winning blockbuster to a new generation of moviegoers and allows longtime fans to experience the world he envisioned in a way that was unimaginable during the film’s original release. Starring Sam Neill, Laura Dern , Jeff Goldblum , Samuel L. Jackson and Richard Attenborough , the film based on the novel by Michael Crichton is produced by Kathleen Kennedy and Gerald R. Molen .
“Jurassic Park is...
Los Angeles, Jan. 9, 2013 – IMAX Corporation and Universal Pictures today announced that Steven Spielberg ‘s epic Jurassic Park will return to the big screen with a one-week 3D engagement in IMAX® theatres worldwide simultaneous with the film’s wide release beginning April 5, 2013.
With his remastering of this epic film into a state-of-the-art 3D format, Steven Spielberg introduces the three-time Academy Award®-winning blockbuster to a new generation of moviegoers and allows longtime fans to experience the world he envisioned in a way that was unimaginable during the film’s original release. Starring Sam Neill, Laura Dern , Jeff Goldblum , Samuel L. Jackson and Richard Attenborough , the film based on the novel by Michael Crichton is produced by Kathleen Kennedy and Gerald R. Molen .
“Jurassic Park is...
- 1/9/2013
- by Jonathan James
- DailyDead
Toronto – IMAX plans a one-week 3D run for Steven Spielberg's Jurassic Park worldwide starting April 5 to leverage Universal Pictures’ simultaneous rerelease of the epic film on the same date. IMAX will digitally remaster Spielberg’s original Oscar-winning sci-fi film in its 3D format for the limited run. "Jurassic Park is the quintessential film for fans to experience in IMAX 3D," Universal Pictures distribution president Nikki Rocco said in a statement about the giant-screen exhibitor getting in on the studio’s wide release of the original picture. The film stars Sam Neill, Laura Dern, Jeff Goldblum, Samuel
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- 1/9/2013
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
IMAX Corporation and Universal Pictures today announced that Steven Spielberg’s epic Jurassic Park will return to the big screen with a one-week 3D engagement in IMAX® theatres worldwide simultaneous with the film's wide release beginning April 5, 2013. With his remastering of this epic film into a state-of-the-art 3D format, Steven Spielberg introduces the three-time Academy Award®-winning blockbuster to a new generation of moviegoers and allows longtime fans to experience the world he envisioned in a way that was unimaginable during the film’s original release. Starring Sam Neill, Laura Dern, Jeff Goldblum, Samuel L. Jackson and Richard Attenborough, the film based on the novel by Michael Crichton is produced by Kathleen Kennedy and Gerald R. Molen. "Jurassic Park is the quintessential film for fans to experience in IMAX 3D," said Nikki Rocco, President of Distribution, Universal Pictures. "Jurassic Park was groundbreaking when it was originally released, and The IMAX...
- 1/9/2013
- ComicBookMovie.com
To quote Les Miserables, “I dreamed a dream” that the ambitious movie adaptation of the stage musical would show in IMAX theaters, and it’s happening!
Universal Pictures announced Tuesday that the Tom Hooper-directed film, starring Anne Hathaway, Hugh Jackman, Russell Crowe, Sacha Baron Cohen, Amanda Seyfried, and Helena Bonham Carter, among others, will be digitally remastered to begin a limited domestic IMAX run in New York, Los Angeles, Toronto, and Montreal the same day as its nationwide domestic release on Dec. 25. The movie will roll out in IMAX theaters internationally starting Jan. 10, 2013.
“Les Miserables is a musical epic...
Universal Pictures announced Tuesday that the Tom Hooper-directed film, starring Anne Hathaway, Hugh Jackman, Russell Crowe, Sacha Baron Cohen, Amanda Seyfried, and Helena Bonham Carter, among others, will be digitally remastered to begin a limited domestic IMAX run in New York, Los Angeles, Toronto, and Montreal the same day as its nationwide domestic release on Dec. 25. The movie will roll out in IMAX theaters internationally starting Jan. 10, 2013.
“Les Miserables is a musical epic...
- 12/5/2012
- by Solvej Schou
- EW - Inside Movies
Have you dreamed a dream about experiencing Les Miserables in the largest screen format possible? Your Christmas wish is about to come true. Universal Pictures and IMAX Corporation announced that Tom Hooper’s upcoming adaptation of the stage musical Les Miserables will open in select markets in IMAX on Dec. 25. The film will begin its limited domestic IMAX run in New York, Los Angeles, Toronto and Montreal day-and-date with its domestic release on Christmas Day. "Les Misérables is a musical epic that lends itself perfectly to the IMAX experience,” said Nikki Rocco, President of Distribution, Universal Pictures, in a press release. “Audiences will be immersed in the unforgettable music and breathtaking visuals that only...
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- 12/4/2012
- by affiliates@fandango.com
- Fandango
IMAX Corporation and Universal Pictures today announced that Les Misérables , the motion-picture adaptation of the beloved global stage sensation, will be digitally re-mastered into the immersive IMAX format and released in select IMAX® digital theatres worldwide. The film will begin its limited domestic IMAX run in New York, Los Angeles, Toronto and Montreal day-and-date with its domestic release on December 25 . Internationally, the film will begin its IMAX run on January 10 in the Netherlands, followed by Russia, U.K., Mexico, Croatia, Israel, Poland, Italy, France and Brazil. "'Les Misérables' is a musical epic that lends itself perfectly to The IMAX Experience®," said Nikki Rocco, President of Distribution, Universal Pictures. "Audiences will be immersed in the...
- 12/4/2012
- Comingsoon.net
Universal Pictures announced today that it will release Pitch Perfect in select theaters across North America on Friday, September 28, 2012.one week earlier than expected. This early release of the new movie from Gold Circle Films and Universal Pictures will precede the musical comedy’s wide release, which continues as previously scheduled on October 5.
The decision to open the film in select theaters early resulted from a number of factors, led by the wildly positive moviegoer feedback for Pitch Perfect from early screenings and indicators of a very engaged core audience avidly anticipating its release. Universal is promoting Pitch Perfect with the most extensive screening campaign in the studio’s history. Over the past few weeks, hundreds of screenings of Pitch Perfect across the country have consistently received raucous audience response.
Those screenings have also created regular spikes in social-media conversation that far outpace similar films at the same stage. Fizziology,...
The decision to open the film in select theaters early resulted from a number of factors, led by the wildly positive moviegoer feedback for Pitch Perfect from early screenings and indicators of a very engaged core audience avidly anticipating its release. Universal is promoting Pitch Perfect with the most extensive screening campaign in the studio’s history. Over the past few weeks, hundreds of screenings of Pitch Perfect across the country have consistently received raucous audience response.
Those screenings have also created regular spikes in social-media conversation that far outpace similar films at the same stage. Fizziology,...
- 9/7/2012
- by Michelle McCue
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
We have been keeping you up-to-date on all the fantastic casting for director Joseph Kosinski‘s (Tron: Legacy) Oblivion, the director’s sophomore trip to the big screen. The cast includes Tom Cruise in the lead role, with a supporting cast including the likes of Morgan Freeman, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, Olga Kurylenko, Andrea Riseboroug and Melissa Leo.
Now, Universal Pictures has announced the the official release date for the film is being shifted from April 26, 2013 to April 19, 2013, and the film will be getting an early reveal in IMAX on April 12, 2013. Check out the press release below for all the details.
Press Release:
Universal Pictures’ Oblivion to be Released One Week Early, Exclusively in IMAX®, on April 12, 2013 Action-Adventure to Feature Expanded Aspect Ratio,
Optimizing IMAX Canvas
Los Angeles, Aug. 10, 2012 — IMAX Corporation and Universal Pictures announced today that Oblivion will be released exclusively in IMAX on April 12, 2013, one week ahead of its wide...
Now, Universal Pictures has announced the the official release date for the film is being shifted from April 26, 2013 to April 19, 2013, and the film will be getting an early reveal in IMAX on April 12, 2013. Check out the press release below for all the details.
Press Release:
Universal Pictures’ Oblivion to be Released One Week Early, Exclusively in IMAX®, on April 12, 2013 Action-Adventure to Feature Expanded Aspect Ratio,
Optimizing IMAX Canvas
Los Angeles, Aug. 10, 2012 — IMAX Corporation and Universal Pictures announced today that Oblivion will be released exclusively in IMAX on April 12, 2013, one week ahead of its wide...
- 8/13/2012
- by Jason Moore
- ScifiMafia
IMAX Corporation and Universal Pictures announced today that Oblivion will be released exclusively in IMAX on April 12th, 2013, one week ahead of its wide release on April 19th, 2013. The action-adventure starring Tom Cruise marks director Joseph Kosinski‘s second IMAX release following 2010′s Tron: Legacy.
Exclusively in IMAX, Oblivion will feature a larger aspect ratio, in key sequences, compared to the traditional release. This aspect ratio, which is optimized to take advantage of the IMAX screen, will allow audiences to see more of the image and result in a full panorama of the action – further immersing them into the vast scale and scope of the film.
“IMAX has been a wonderful partner of Universal’s, and we’re excited to join them once again for the release of Oblivion. Experiencing the film in IMAX will allow audiences to be captivated by the stunning, action-filled sequences that were filmed in digital 4K.
Exclusively in IMAX, Oblivion will feature a larger aspect ratio, in key sequences, compared to the traditional release. This aspect ratio, which is optimized to take advantage of the IMAX screen, will allow audiences to see more of the image and result in a full panorama of the action – further immersing them into the vast scale and scope of the film.
“IMAX has been a wonderful partner of Universal’s, and we’re excited to join them once again for the release of Oblivion. Experiencing the film in IMAX will allow audiences to be captivated by the stunning, action-filled sequences that were filmed in digital 4K.
- 8/13/2012
- by Allan Ford
- Filmofilia
IMAX Corporation and Universal Pictures announced today that Oblivion will be released exclusively in IMAX on April 12, 2013, one week ahead of its wide release on April 19, 2013. The action-adventure starring Tom Cruise marks director Joseph Kosinski’s second IMAX release following 2010′s Tron: Legacy.
Exclusively in IMAX, Oblivion will feature a larger aspect ratio, in key sequences, compared to the traditional release. This aspect ratio, which is optimized to take advantage of the IMAX screen, will allow audiences to see more of the image and result in a full panorama of the action . further immersing them into the vast scale and scope of the film.
“IMAX has been a wonderful partner of Universal’s, and we’re excited to join them once again for the release of Oblivion,” said Nikki Rocco, President of Distribution, Universal Pictures. ”Experiencing the film in IMAX will allow audiences to be captivated by the stunning, action-filled...
Exclusively in IMAX, Oblivion will feature a larger aspect ratio, in key sequences, compared to the traditional release. This aspect ratio, which is optimized to take advantage of the IMAX screen, will allow audiences to see more of the image and result in a full panorama of the action . further immersing them into the vast scale and scope of the film.
“IMAX has been a wonderful partner of Universal’s, and we’re excited to join them once again for the release of Oblivion,” said Nikki Rocco, President of Distribution, Universal Pictures. ”Experiencing the film in IMAX will allow audiences to be captivated by the stunning, action-filled...
- 8/11/2012
- by Michelle McCue
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
Los Angeles (AP) -- It's both a bear and bull market for Hollywood.The bear is "Ted," Mark Wahlberg and Seth MacFarlane's comedy for Universal Pictures about a talking teddy bear, which opened as the No. 1 movie with $54.1 million, according to studio estimates Sunday.And the bulls are baring it in the Warner Bros. release "Magic Mike," Channing Tatum and Steven Soderbergh's male-stripper tale that debuted a strong No. 2 with $39.2 million.The two new movies were backed by a deep bench, with Pixar Animation's Disney fairy tale "Brave" holding up well at No. 3 with $34 million in its second weekend. "Tyler Perry's Madea's Witness Protection," the latest from the dependable breadwinner for Lionsgate Films, opened solidly at No. 4 with $26.4 million.The four movies combined to keep Hollywood in the money compared to the same weekend last year, when "Transformers: Dark of the Moon" launched with $97.9 million.The only one...
- 7/2/2012
- by tooFab Staff
- TooFab
Los Angeles (AP) -- "Snow White and the Huntsman" turned out to be a fairer box-office beauty than Hollywood anticipated.According to studio estimates Sunday, Universal Pictures' action yarn inspired by the fairy-tale princess debuted strongly at No. 1 with $56.3 million domestically. That's about $20 million higher than industry expectations.Without the built-in business that generally goes with a sequel, "Snow White" was a question mark as a draw for young males who typically make up most of the action crowd. The movie wound up drawing a fairly even audience, with female fans accounting for 53 percent of viewers."We weren't even thinking we could do beyond $40 million, especially for a title where you didn't know if the males are going to show up. And they did," said Nikki Rocco, head of distribution for Universal.Overseas, "Snow White" added $39.3 million in 45 markets, putting the worldwide total at $95.6 million for the movie that stars Kristen Stewart,...
- 6/4/2012
- by tooFab Staff
- TooFab
"The Hunger Games" continues its victorious run on the North American box office. Defending its champion title for three weeks in a row, the famous novel-adapted movie rakes in .1 million this weekend. Dropping only 43% from last week, the survival sci-fi pic collects a total domestic cume of 2.8 million in only 17 days after being released in the U.S. theaters.
Landing on the runner-up spot is "American Reunion", which takes in .5 million on its opening weekend. The latest movie of the "American Pie" series scores a "B+" CinemaScore, while attracting mostly older moviegoers which make up 60% of the ticket buyers.
Though "Reunion", which is made with a budget of million, marks the smallest opening in the "Pie" franchise, Universal Pictures is satisfied enough with the result. The studio's president of domestic distribution Nikki Rocco says, "We're very happy with the worldwide result for 'American Reunion'. Based on the cost, this is...
Landing on the runner-up spot is "American Reunion", which takes in .5 million on its opening weekend. The latest movie of the "American Pie" series scores a "B+" CinemaScore, while attracting mostly older moviegoers which make up 60% of the ticket buyers.
Though "Reunion", which is made with a budget of million, marks the smallest opening in the "Pie" franchise, Universal Pictures is satisfied enough with the result. The studio's president of domestic distribution Nikki Rocco says, "We're very happy with the worldwide result for 'American Reunion'. Based on the cost, this is...
- 4/11/2012
- icelebz.com
Dystopian fantasy “The Hunger Games” was the top-grossing film at the box office for the third time in a row over the holiday weekend, bringing its domestic cumulative earnings to $302.8 million.
According to early studio estimates, the Lions Gate Entertainment Corp. film grossed $33.5 million from 4,137 locations. That was enough to outpace two new releases with origins in the 1990s: “American Reunion” from Comcast Corp.’s Universal Pictures and “Titanic 3D” from Viacom Inc.’s Paramount Pictures.
“American Reunion,” the fourth...
According to early studio estimates, the Lions Gate Entertainment Corp. film grossed $33.5 million from 4,137 locations. That was enough to outpace two new releases with origins in the 1990s: “American Reunion” from Comcast Corp.’s Universal Pictures and “Titanic 3D” from Viacom Inc.’s Paramount Pictures.
“American Reunion,” the fourth...
- 4/8/2012
- by Michelle Kung
- Speakeasy/Wall Street Journal
Los Angeles, California (X17online) - The Dr. Seuss animated movie The Lorax debuted to a record-breaking $70.7 million, making it the best opening ever for a non-sequel animated film. The Lorax also broke a number of other records, including the top opening of 2012 and fourth best opening ever for any Universal Pictures title. The film, which got glowing reviews, beat out the previous record earned by Pixar's The Incredibles in 2004. Given the state of the box office last year, the numbers are a huge victory for the domestic box office, which was up 30 percent this weekend, marking the 9th consecutive weekend of growth. "The result is phenomenal. Word of mouth was great, and that's why Saturday was up 80 percent from Friday. It's just spectacular," Universal president of domestic distribution Nikki Rocco said in a statement. The adaptation of Dr. Seuss' legendary book is voiced by Danny DeVito, Zac Efron,...
- 3/5/2012
- x17online.com
Los Angeles — "Dr. Seuss' The Lorax" raked in all kinds of green, earning $70.7 million in its first weekend to score the biggest box-office debut of the year by far.
The 3-D animated family film from Universal Pictures, featuring the voices of Danny DeVito, Zac Efron and Taylor Swift, is based on Seuss' cautionary fable about the importance of preserving the environment. Of its opening haul, $5.4 million, or 8 percent, came from IMAX screens, which is on the high side for a family film.
Coming in second place with a strong debut of its own was the R-rated "Project X," about a trio of high school misfits who throw a raging party in hopes of becoming popular. The Warner Bros. comedy made about $20.8 million, according to Sunday studio estimates.
"The Lorax" comes from the makers of "Despicable Me," – Illumination Entertainment, led by producer Christopher Meledandri – and director Chris Renaud. It actually had...
The 3-D animated family film from Universal Pictures, featuring the voices of Danny DeVito, Zac Efron and Taylor Swift, is based on Seuss' cautionary fable about the importance of preserving the environment. Of its opening haul, $5.4 million, or 8 percent, came from IMAX screens, which is on the high side for a family film.
Coming in second place with a strong debut of its own was the R-rated "Project X," about a trio of high school misfits who throw a raging party in hopes of becoming popular. The Warner Bros. comedy made about $20.8 million, according to Sunday studio estimates.
"The Lorax" comes from the makers of "Despicable Me," – Illumination Entertainment, led by producer Christopher Meledandri – and director Chris Renaud. It actually had...
- 3/4/2012
- by AP
- Huffington Post
Los Angeles -- "Dr. Seuss' The Lorax" raked in all kinds of green, earning $70.7 million in its first weekend to score the biggest box-office debut of the year by far. The 3-D animated family film from Universal Pictures, featuring the voices of Danny DeVito, Zac Efron and Taylor Swift, is based on Seuss' cautionary fable about the importance of preserving the environment. Of its opening haul, $5.4 million, or 8 percent, came from IMAX screens, which is on the high side for a family film. Coming in second place with a strong debut of its own was the R-rated "Project X," about a trio of high school misfits who throw a raging party in hopes of becoming popular. The Warner Bros. comedy made about $20.8 million, according to Sunday studio estimates. "The Lorax" comes from the makers of "Despicable Me," – Illumination Entertainment, led by producer Christopher Meledandri – and director Chris Renaud. It actually...
- 3/4/2012
- by Leigh Weingus
- Moviefone
Los Angeles — The President's Day weekend box office was too close to call as the action tale "Safe House" and the love story "The Vow" competed for the No. 1 spot.
Based on Sunday's studio estimates, Denzel Washington and Ryan Reynolds' "Safe House" had a slim lead with $24 million from Friday to Sunday. That put it a fraction ahead of Rachel McAdams and Channing Tatum's "The Vow" with $23.6 million.
The winner won't be known for certain until Tuesday, when studios will report final numbers for the long holiday weekend. Final numbers often vary from weekend projections, which include estimates for the size of Sunday's audiences.
No matter which one finishes on top, the movie business remains unusually brisk for winter, typically a slow season at theaters. The business uptick comes after Hollywood lumbered through a humdrum holiday season at the end of last year, when audiences were apathetic about most new releases.
Based on Sunday's studio estimates, Denzel Washington and Ryan Reynolds' "Safe House" had a slim lead with $24 million from Friday to Sunday. That put it a fraction ahead of Rachel McAdams and Channing Tatum's "The Vow" with $23.6 million.
The winner won't be known for certain until Tuesday, when studios will report final numbers for the long holiday weekend. Final numbers often vary from weekend projections, which include estimates for the size of Sunday's audiences.
No matter which one finishes on top, the movie business remains unusually brisk for winter, typically a slow season at theaters. The business uptick comes after Hollywood lumbered through a humdrum holiday season at the end of last year, when audiences were apathetic about most new releases.
- 2/19/2012
- by AP
- Huffington Post
Los Angeles — The President's Day weekend box office was too close to call as the action tale "Safe House" and the love story "The Vow" competed for the No. 1 spot.
Based on Sunday's studio estimates, Denzel Washington and Ryan Reynolds' "Safe House" had a slim lead with $24 million from Friday to Sunday. That put it a fraction ahead of Rachel McAdams and Channing Tatum's "The Vow" with $23.6 million.
The winner won't be known for certain until Tuesday, when studios will report final numbers for the long holiday weekend. Final numbers often vary from weekend projections, which include estimates for the size of Sunday's audiences.
No matter which one finishes on top, the movie business remains unusually brisk for winter, typically a slow season at theaters. The business uptick comes after Hollywood lumbered through a humdrum holiday season at the end of last year, when audiences were apathetic about most new releases.
Based on Sunday's studio estimates, Denzel Washington and Ryan Reynolds' "Safe House" had a slim lead with $24 million from Friday to Sunday. That put it a fraction ahead of Rachel McAdams and Channing Tatum's "The Vow" with $23.6 million.
The winner won't be known for certain until Tuesday, when studios will report final numbers for the long holiday weekend. Final numbers often vary from weekend projections, which include estimates for the size of Sunday's audiences.
No matter which one finishes on top, the movie business remains unusually brisk for winter, typically a slow season at theaters. The business uptick comes after Hollywood lumbered through a humdrum holiday season at the end of last year, when audiences were apathetic about most new releases.
- 2/19/2012
- by AP
- Huffington Post
Los Angeles — The President's Day weekend box office was too close to call as the action tale "Safe House" and the love story "The Vow" competed for the No. 1 spot. Based on Sunday's studio estimates, Denzel Washington and Ryan Reynolds' "Safe House" had a slim lead with $24 million from Friday to Sunday. That put it a fraction ahead of Rachel McAdams and Channing Tatum's "The Vow" with $23.6 million. The winner won't be known for certain until Tuesday, when studios will report final numbers for the long holiday weekend. Final numbers often vary from weekend projections, which include estimates for the size of Sunday's audiences. No matter which one finishes on top, the movie business remains unusually brisk for winter, typically a slow season at theaters. The business uptick comes after Hollywood lumbered through a humdrum holiday season at the end of last year, when audiences were apathetic about most new releases.
- 2/19/2012
- by Alex Moaba
- Moviefone
Getty Channing Tatum, star of “The Vow.”
Four different films from different genres helped boost the box office over the pre-Valentine’s Day weekend, continuing a recent hot streak of Hollywood releases performing over expectations.
Romantic drama “The Vow,” from Sony Corp.’s Screen Gems; thriller “Safe House,” from Comcast Corp.’s Universal Pictures; “Journey 2: The Mysterious Island,” from Time Warner Inc’s Warner Bros. Pictures; and a re-release of Twentieth Century Fox’s “Star Wars: Episode 1 – The Phantom Menace...
Four different films from different genres helped boost the box office over the pre-Valentine’s Day weekend, continuing a recent hot streak of Hollywood releases performing over expectations.
Romantic drama “The Vow,” from Sony Corp.’s Screen Gems; thriller “Safe House,” from Comcast Corp.’s Universal Pictures; “Journey 2: The Mysterious Island,” from Time Warner Inc’s Warner Bros. Pictures; and a re-release of Twentieth Century Fox’s “Star Wars: Episode 1 – The Phantom Menace...
- 2/12/2012
- by Michelle Kung
- Speakeasy/Wall Street Journal
Universal Pictures Mark Wahlberg in “Contraband”
“Contraband,” an action thriller from Comcast Corp.’s Universal Pictures, led the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday weekend at the box office, earning $28.8 million according to early studio estimates.
The $25 million film, which stars Mark Wahlberg as an ex-smuggler pulled back into a final job, was co-financed by Relativity Media and performed above expectations.
“Contraband” appealed primarily to males, who made up 51% of the audience, and those over the age of 30, who made up 55% of the audience.
“Contraband,” an action thriller from Comcast Corp.’s Universal Pictures, led the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday weekend at the box office, earning $28.8 million according to early studio estimates.
The $25 million film, which stars Mark Wahlberg as an ex-smuggler pulled back into a final job, was co-financed by Relativity Media and performed above expectations.
“Contraband” appealed primarily to males, who made up 51% of the audience, and those over the age of 30, who made up 55% of the audience.
- 1/16/2012
- by Michelle Kung
- Speakeasy/Wall Street Journal
Via Bloomberg A scene from the animated feature “Puss in Boots.”
DreamWorks Animation Skg, Inc.’s “Puss in Boots” remained atop the North American box office in its second weekend, holding off several newcomers.
The “Shrek” franchise spin-off, which was distributed by Viacom Inc.’s Paramount Pictures, earned $33 million dollars according to early studio estimates. The sum was only a 3% drop from the $34.1 million the film earned its opening weekend, an extremely strong hold for a non-holiday period. Cumulatively, “Puss in Boots...
DreamWorks Animation Skg, Inc.’s “Puss in Boots” remained atop the North American box office in its second weekend, holding off several newcomers.
The “Shrek” franchise spin-off, which was distributed by Viacom Inc.’s Paramount Pictures, earned $33 million dollars according to early studio estimates. The sum was only a 3% drop from the $34.1 million the film earned its opening weekend, an extremely strong hold for a non-holiday period. Cumulatively, “Puss in Boots...
- 11/6/2011
- by Michelle Kung
- Speakeasy/Wall Street Journal
Everett Neil Patrick Harris in “The Smurfs”
With apologies to Damon Lindelof, “Cowboys & Aliens” got smurfed this weekend.
In a rare Hollywood tie, new releases “Cowboys and Aliens” and “The Smurfs” both grossed $36.2 million over the weekend, according to early studio estimates. Final numbers will be released Monday and positions could then shift.
Costing $163 million to produce, “Cowboys and Aliens,” underperformed for Comcast Corp.’s Universal Pictures, given the film’s high-profile cast, director and producers.
Financed by DreamWorks Studios,...
With apologies to Damon Lindelof, “Cowboys & Aliens” got smurfed this weekend.
In a rare Hollywood tie, new releases “Cowboys and Aliens” and “The Smurfs” both grossed $36.2 million over the weekend, according to early studio estimates. Final numbers will be released Monday and positions could then shift.
Costing $163 million to produce, “Cowboys and Aliens,” underperformed for Comcast Corp.’s Universal Pictures, given the film’s high-profile cast, director and producers.
Financed by DreamWorks Studios,...
- 7/31/2011
- by Michelle Kung
- Speakeasy/Wall Street Journal
Los Angeles — The "Transformers" robots have put their 3-D ticket-price advantage to good use.
Distributor Paramount Pictures estimated Monday that "Transformers: Dark of the Moon" pulled in $116.4 million domestically over the four-day Fourth of July weekend and $181.1 million since opening Tuesday night.
Director Michael Bay's third installment in the sci-fi franchise has added $217 million overseas, bringing its worldwide total to nearly $400 million.
The studio says 60 percent of domestic business came from premium-priced 3-D admissions, which cost a few dollars more than 2-D screenings. Overseas, 3-D admissions accounted for 70 percent of ticket sales.
That's a good sign for Hollywood's 3-D business, which had waned as 3-D revenues dipped to 50 percent or less of the total for some recent releases.
"It proves that for 3-D to be successful, it has to be attached to the right kind of movie. This was this monumental Michael Bay blockbuster, and for something like that,...
Distributor Paramount Pictures estimated Monday that "Transformers: Dark of the Moon" pulled in $116.4 million domestically over the four-day Fourth of July weekend and $181.1 million since opening Tuesday night.
Director Michael Bay's third installment in the sci-fi franchise has added $217 million overseas, bringing its worldwide total to nearly $400 million.
The studio says 60 percent of domestic business came from premium-priced 3-D admissions, which cost a few dollars more than 2-D screenings. Overseas, 3-D admissions accounted for 70 percent of ticket sales.
That's a good sign for Hollywood's 3-D business, which had waned as 3-D revenues dipped to 50 percent or less of the total for some recent releases.
"It proves that for 3-D to be successful, it has to be attached to the right kind of movie. This was this monumental Michael Bay blockbuster, and for something like that,...
- 7/5/2011
- by AP
- Huffington Post
Exclusive: Universal's legendary President of Distribution Nikki Rocco is promoting Nicholas Carpou from Evp/General Sales Manager in Distribution to Co-President of Distribution. "For recognition of his 25 years here and 34 years in the biz," an insider tells me. "He's a tremendous right hand to Nikki. It's time." Rocco, of course, has been President of Distribution at the studio since 1996 and remains the only top female in the male-dominated field (when she was appointed, all the guys said a woman wouldn't last six months in the job). She's been in the business for 44 years. You gotta love it. ... Update: Universal has issued a press release announcing the promotion: Universal City, CA (May 31, 2011) — Universal Pictures’ President of Distribution Nikki Rocco today announced that as of June 1, Nicholas Carpou will become Co-President of Distribution for the film studio. Carpou, who currently serves as Executive Vice President of Distribution, has been with Universal for 29 years.
- 5/31/2011
- by NIKKI FINKE
- Deadline Hollywood
Universal Pictures Kristen Wiig
In one of the summer’s only weekends without a new, big-budget “tentpole” opening, action film “Thor” repeated as the top-grossing movie, though raunchy romantic comedy “Bridesmaids” exceeded expectations to take the number two slot.
With little competition in the blockbuster space, “Thor,” an adaptation of the Marvel comic book series about the Norse god of thunder, grossed $34.5 million in North America according to early studio estimates. The film, which was distributed by Viacom’s Paramount Pictures,...
In one of the summer’s only weekends without a new, big-budget “tentpole” opening, action film “Thor” repeated as the top-grossing movie, though raunchy romantic comedy “Bridesmaids” exceeded expectations to take the number two slot.
With little competition in the blockbuster space, “Thor,” an adaptation of the Marvel comic book series about the Norse god of thunder, grossed $34.5 million in North America according to early studio estimates. The film, which was distributed by Viacom’s Paramount Pictures,...
- 5/15/2011
- by Michelle Kung
- Speakeasy/Wall Street Journal
By Annlee Ellingson
(from Moving Pictures, spring issue, 2011)
Even if you’re not in school anymore, summertime evokes vacation: lazy afternoons at the pool under the hot sun, cool nights spent at sleepaway camp, sweaty cross-country road trips in the back of the family station wagon — or, these days, SUV. It’s perhaps these warm feelings that the studios are attempting to tap into with summer slates rife with films that aim to induce laughter.
Sure, the summer months are best-known for high-concept, special effects-laden blockbusters (see this year’s “Priest” in May, “Super 8” in June and “Cowboys & Aliens” in July), comic-book adaptations (including “Thor,” “Green Lantern” and “Captain America”) and the requisite sequels: “Pirates of the Caribbean,” “X-Men,” “Transformers,” “Harry Potter” and “Final Destination” all have installments coming out in April through August.
“There is a reason that studios make sequels and franchises, and that reason is simple: audience demand,...
(from Moving Pictures, spring issue, 2011)
Even if you’re not in school anymore, summertime evokes vacation: lazy afternoons at the pool under the hot sun, cool nights spent at sleepaway camp, sweaty cross-country road trips in the back of the family station wagon — or, these days, SUV. It’s perhaps these warm feelings that the studios are attempting to tap into with summer slates rife with films that aim to induce laughter.
Sure, the summer months are best-known for high-concept, special effects-laden blockbusters (see this year’s “Priest” in May, “Super 8” in June and “Cowboys & Aliens” in July), comic-book adaptations (including “Thor,” “Green Lantern” and “Captain America”) and the requisite sequels: “Pirates of the Caribbean,” “X-Men,” “Transformers,” “Harry Potter” and “Final Destination” all have installments coming out in April through August.
“There is a reason that studios make sequels and franchises, and that reason is simple: audience demand,...
- 5/13/2011
- by admin
- Moving Pictures Magazine
By Annlee Ellingson
(from Moving Pictures, spring issue, 2011)
Even if you’re not in school anymore, summertime evokes vacation: lazy afternoons at the pool under the hot sun, cool nights spent at sleepaway camp, sweaty cross-country road trips in the back of the family station wagon — or, these days, SUV. It’s perhaps these warm feelings that the studios are attempting to tap into with summer slates rife with films that aim to induce laughter.
Sure, the summer months are best-known for high-concept, special effects-laden blockbusters (see this year’s “Priest” in May, “Super 8” in June and “Cowboys & Aliens” in July), comic-book adaptations (including “Thor,” “Green Lantern” and “Captain America”) and the requisite sequels: “Pirates of the Caribbean,” “X-Men,” “Transformers,” “Harry Potter” and “Final Destination” all have installments coming out in April through August.
“There is a reason that studios make sequels and franchises, and that reason is simple: audience demand,...
(from Moving Pictures, spring issue, 2011)
Even if you’re not in school anymore, summertime evokes vacation: lazy afternoons at the pool under the hot sun, cool nights spent at sleepaway camp, sweaty cross-country road trips in the back of the family station wagon — or, these days, SUV. It’s perhaps these warm feelings that the studios are attempting to tap into with summer slates rife with films that aim to induce laughter.
Sure, the summer months are best-known for high-concept, special effects-laden blockbusters (see this year’s “Priest” in May, “Super 8” in June and “Cowboys & Aliens” in July), comic-book adaptations (including “Thor,” “Green Lantern” and “Captain America”) and the requisite sequels: “Pirates of the Caribbean,” “X-Men,” “Transformers,” “Harry Potter” and “Final Destination” all have installments coming out in April through August.
“There is a reason that studios make sequels and franchises, and that reason is simple: audience demand,...
- 5/13/2011
- by admin
- Moving Pictures Network
Los Angeles — "Fast Five" has left the competition in the dust with an $83.6 million debut to grab the No. 1 spot at the weekend box office, according to studio estimates Sunday.
Universal Pictures' fifth movie in "The Fast and the Furious" franchise was by far this year's biggest opening. Its take was more than double the previous best of $39.2 million for "Rio," the 20th Century Fox animated hit that slipped to No. 2 with $14.4 million.
The No. 1 movie the two previous weekends, "Rio" raised its total to $103.6 million.
"Fast Five" set a record for best April debut ever, speeding past the $71 million haul of its predecessor, "Fast & Furious," two years ago.
The movie reteams stars Vin Diesel and Paul Walker as outlaw driving aces and adds Dwayne Johnson as a federal agent on their tail. The action expands beyond the franchise's traditional racing scene into a broad crime romp.
"Summer began April 29," said Nikki Rocco,...
Universal Pictures' fifth movie in "The Fast and the Furious" franchise was by far this year's biggest opening. Its take was more than double the previous best of $39.2 million for "Rio," the 20th Century Fox animated hit that slipped to No. 2 with $14.4 million.
The No. 1 movie the two previous weekends, "Rio" raised its total to $103.6 million.
"Fast Five" set a record for best April debut ever, speeding past the $71 million haul of its predecessor, "Fast & Furious," two years ago.
The movie reteams stars Vin Diesel and Paul Walker as outlaw driving aces and adds Dwayne Johnson as a federal agent on their tail. The action expands beyond the franchise's traditional racing scene into a broad crime romp.
"Summer began April 29," said Nikki Rocco,...
- 5/1/2011
- by AP
- Huffington Post
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