December 2007 Forecast
By Marty Doskins
December 8, 2007
BoxOfficeProphets.com
Here's my top ten list for December 2007.
1. [tm:2736_]National Treasure: Book of Secrets[/tm]
The highly anticipated sequel to National Treasure finally makes its way to the big screen. Of course, the original cast is reunited in their quest to solve another big mystery by following some big clues. Most of the movie-going public is familiar with the original film and they were pleased with the results. This movie was also a big hit in the home video market. I don't see much problem for this one to match the original's box office take. The only thing that may hurt it is that it is opening in a very busy movie weekend with four other wide releases. However, it should grab most of the available screens since it is anticipated to be the biggest of these films.
2. [tm:3002_]I Am Legend[/tm]
The marketing for this film has been brilliant. The commercials have been revealing a little more of the movie each time we see them. Whether it's the military destroying bridges, animals running wild in the streets, or the lone survivor broadcasting and trying to get hold of anyone, they are definitely grabbing the public's attention. And it doesn't hurt having [bp:[tm:2838_]9[/tm]1_]Will Smith[/bp] as your star.
3. The Golden Compass
A great deal of controversy has been surrounding this film from religious groups complaining about the anti-Christian message in the books/film. While you do have the people that will boycott the film, there are those that would not have seen it but will out of curiosity. In addition, those that just want to see a good fantasy film, which is being compared to Narnia and Harry Potter, will go no matter what anyone says. It all adds up to some big numbers at the box office.
4. Aliens vs. Predator: Requiem
Aliens. Predator. What more do you need? Maybe a little publicity wouldn't hurt. That's the one area where I worry about this film. There hasn't been that much publicity surrounding this film. Unless there's a big marketing push, this may end up lower down the list this month.
5. [tm:1773_]Alvin and the Chipmunks[/tm]
Here's a good kids film, but how many kids will actually ask to go see it? Again, it may end up down the list unless we see the studio trying to stir up some interest.
6. [tm:3545_]Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street[/tm]
[bp:84_]Johnny Depp[/bp] has his first big role outside of the Pirates of the Caribbean movies. While there are some Broadway fans out there that will be interested in this adaptation, most everyone will be going to see Mr. Depp. Can you blame them? He has charmed audiences with his terrific portrayal of Captain Jack Sparrow and everyone wants to see what he's been up to. This movie should do fairly well, especially since there's already Oscar buzz.
7. [tm:1457_]Charlie Wilson's War[/tm]
There has been a lot of talk in movie circles about this film. However, I think the general public is pretty much in the dark. There has been a taste of the movie in the usual television venues, but I think the big attraction will be [bp:3277_]Tom Hanks[/bp] and [bp:167_]Julia Roberts[/bp]. They are two of the biggest stars working today and pairing them up was a stroke of genius. It will take a back seat to National Treasure, but it should still do fairly well at its opening and have decent legs.
8. [tm:3840_]Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story[/tm]
I'm not sure what to think about this film. John C. Reilly is coming into his own as a lead actor, not just character roles. You also have the strength of Judd Apatow's (Knocked Up and Superbad) writing abilities. While this is a spoof film, I get the feeling that it doesn't look that way. It comes off as too serious and may turn off some viewers. And if audiences don't know what to think, they will have plenty of other choices the weekend this film opens that will look more interesting to them.
9. The Water Horse
These kids' books turned into movies have had a record of not doing so well at the box office. I think this will fall into that same category, but barely remain in the top ten.
10. [tm:1941_]P.S. I Love You[/tm]
In any other month, I would've placed this film up a bit higher in my top ten. It's a "chick flick" with a good cast, including [bp:1647_]Hilary Swank[/bp]. The story sounds very touching with a deceased lover sending messages from the great beyond helping his significant other get on with her life without him. However, I think this film will be the loser in the extremely crowded weekend of the 21st.
P.S. But it wouldn't surprise me if it does better than the number ten spot.