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The Disney empire is enjoying a prosperous Friday as Marvel Studios‘ Thor: The Dark World continues its global assault, hoping to cross $300 million at the worldwide box office by Sunday.
Returning Chris Hemsworth in the title role, Thor 2 opened in North American on Thursday night, grossing a hearty $7.1 million. Based on the strength of Friday traffic, the 3D tentpole should have no trouble crossing $80 million in its domestic debut to score one of the top November openings of all time.
Thor 2 began rolling out overseas last weekend, and has already taken in $152.8 million. On Friday, the movie opens in China. Major markets where it won’t be playing yet are Japan, Italy and Argentina.
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The first Thor opened to $65.7 million in May 2011 on its way to grossing $449.3 million globally.
Most films are staying out of Thor 2‘s way, although both 12 Years a Slave and About Time will make major expansions this weekend, hoping to provide counterprogramming.
Thor 2, like Iron Man 3, is expected to benefit from 2012 global blockbuster The Avengers, the crown jewel of Marvel’s superhero film empire. The Avengers, which features Hemsworth as Thor and Robert Downey Jr. as Iron Man, among other Marvel characters, earned $1.5 billion worldwide to become the No. 3 film of all time behind Avatar and Titanic.
Iron Man 3 debuted to $174.4 million in May and boasts the top opening of 2013 so far. That film took in $15.6 million in Thursday night runs.
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Thor 2 is sparking interest among all quadrants of the moviegoing audience. Interest is high among younger females for a superhero film, likely due to Hemsworth and Natalie Portman, who likewise returns for the follow-up alongside Tom Hiddleston, Anthony Hopkins and Idris Elba. Thor 2 is also tracking well among Hispanics.
Thor 2 takes place one year after the events of The Avengers, as Thor reunites with Jane Foster (Portman) and tries to save his planet from a mysterious enemy. Thor also forms an uneasy alliance with his adoptive brother, Loki (Hiddleston).
Kenneth Branagh directed the first Thor, while the sequel is from filmmaker Alan Taylor.
The record opening for early November is currently held by Skyfall, which debuted to $88 million on the same weekend a year ago. The Twilight Saga: New Moon is the record-holder for best November opening with $142.8 million. (The franchise installment opened on Nov. 20, 2009).
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