The Imitation Game had a huge opening with $482K in just four theaters, making it the year’s second best debut. This isn’t that surprising considering the very motivated fanbase for Benedict Cumberbatch, especially since he’s got such strong buzz in the Best Actor race. But it’s worth noting that the reviews did not prevent anyone from seeing the film.
What a run for Gone Girl, though I’m pretty sure I’m the only one who seems to be noticing this or caring about it in the world of Oscar punditry. I guess because I’ve been here long enough to see how Hollywood has changed. For a rated R movie that isn’t a remake or a sequel to finish a 9 week run at $160 domestic is rare indeed. It has zoomed past all of the past Best Picture winners of the last ten years, second only to Return of the King. It is extremely rare for a rated R film to make that kind of coin here in uptight, child-oriented America. Gone Girl done proved you don’t have to be 22 Jump Street to make lots of money. You can stir debate, challenge audiences, deliver uncomfortable endings and still make lots of money. Huh. This is also what happens when you put women in movies and give them something to do other than smile and talk pretty. Bridesmaids earned $169 million in its release but was too much of a genre comedy to get a Best Pic nod, despite the noble efforts of the studio. Gone Girl, which wasn’t too much for American audiences, could prove too much for the Academy.
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From Variety: “Twelve percent of the “Imitation Game’s” opening crowd was under 25 years old, 32% was between 25 and 44 and 56% was 45 and up. It was a group that was 52% female and highly educated, with 84% boasting a college diploma.”
I think that this movie has a pretty broad appeall and will be a big success even if not all critics love it.
Maybe i’m alone in thinking this but I wonder if Cumberbatch’s insane popularity will actually hurt his chances at winning best actor? He is simply omnipresent in pop culture at the moment. I wonder if that and his ridicules “cumberbitches” fanbase will dissuade some AMPAS members from voting for him. They might be sick of seeing his face everywhere.
And The Help which made $170 million domestically AND was nominated for Best Pic.
Like Gone Girl, was based on a popular novel, so that could be the secret… or make a funny comedy with popular female stars.