Universal's “Despicable Me 2” proving box office hit

PanARMENIAN.Net - Universal's Despicable Me 2 is already proving the box office hit everyone thought it would be, while Disney's The Lone Ranger may fail to ignite enough Fourth of July fireworks. Both films began rolling out Tuesday July 2 night, hoping to capitalize on the long holiday stretch, The Hollywood Reporter said.

Despicable 2 grossed an estimated $30 million to $35 million on Wednesday, putting the 3D animated sequel on course for a possible five-day debut in the $120 million range, marking another major win for Universal's animation efforts. The family pic earned an A- CinemaScore from audiences, further boosting its standing.

Lone Ranger -- headlined by Johnny Depp and Armie Hammer -- may only reach half of that unless business picks up considerably.

The tentpole, receiving a B+ CinemaScore, is pacing to gross $11 million to $12 million on Wednesday for a meek five-day opening in the $50 million to $60 million range (some say it won't get much past $55 million). That's an especially troubling number considering the film's price tag, and means Lone Ranger will have to do huge business internationally, as well has have strong legs domestically.

Despicable Me 2 cost a modest $76 million to produce, while Lone Ranger cost at least $250 million. Director Gore Verbinski and Depp reunited with their Pirates of the Caribbean producer Jerry Bruckheimer to bring Lone Ranger to the big screen.