David Gordon's Halloween, the direct sequel to John Carpenter's classic (1978), won the prize for the best start in the Halloween film franchise with $77.5 million in North America.
The franchise's last record was $26 million. Amount that had brought in the Halloween of 2007 directed by Rob Zombie.
It also ranks as the second largest start in October. The first place goes to the film Venom (released in France on October 10) with 80 million dollars.
As far as the international market is concerned. Halloween grossed $14.3 million. This brings the film to a start at more than $ 91 million. Good news for the producers, Blumhouse Production and Miramax who only needed $ 10 million to finance the film. Halloween surpassed Paranormal Activity 3 ($52.5 million), making it the best start for production company Blumhouse.
Jason Blum said this new Halloween brings the franchise back to life in a new, relevant and fun way. "I'm extremely proud of this film."
Jamie Lee Curtis returns for the fifth time in the Halloween franchise. Starting as the babysitter, Laurie Strode's character is now a grandmother. This is the biggest start of all time for a film whose lead role is female and over 55 years old.
Universal's president of distribution attributes the film's success to the 40-year gap between it and Carpenter's.
The film scored 80% on Rottent Tomato and a B+ on CinemaScore.
Halloween has been available on French cinema screens since October 24. A good way to entertain yourself while waiting for October 31st.
