VARIETY – TWILIGHT READY FOR A BLOCKBUSTER BOX OFFICE
Variety has a very interesting article about Twilight’s box office success….
A $30 million opening (opposite the Disney animated comedy “Bolt”) is a modest estimate, but “Twilight” could exceed $50 million.Under pressure from exhibs, Summit plans a wide opening on more than 5,000 screens. But that suggests there might be some anxiety about whether the movie will play beyond the target core. The film’s Nov. 8-10 press junket — attended by a largely skeptical male press contingent — should offer an early glimpse at the pic’s broader prospects, but the pic has plenty of pluses going for it:
Because it’s not a takeoff on any existing movie genre, “Twilight” feels fresh, even if its hybrid nature makes marketers nervous. Summit is spending more than $30 million on prints and ads and booking theaters without being able to check against an existing playbook. “Twilight” charts new ground, which forced Summit to fly by the seat of its pants. “It’s really its own thing,” says one Summit marketing exec.
Friedman admits Summit has “grabbed a tiger by the tail,” and its execs very much want to maximize this chance, because it will keep them in business amid tough economic times.
While Oprah didn’t jump at doing a “Twilight”-dedicated show, Ellen DeGeneres begged for it — which was fine with Summit, as she has a younger audience. Pattinson and Kristen Stewart, who plays Bella, are booked on the talkshow circuit, including the “Today” show. In November and December, more than 50 magazine features are planned, including Vanity Fair.
Twilight” will open day-and-date in 10 markets around the world, and broaden out in December and January.
Needless to say, Summit has nailed down rights to the three “Twilight” sequels and has the actors committed.“We’re poised,” says Friedman. “We’ll make our decision on Nov. 22.”
Read the complete article here
(thanks hugz)
Oprah passed on having a Twilight dedicated show?? No way! At least Ellen was interested; she’s a smart lady.
Cough up the dough though cause 50, yes I said 50, magazine features are planned for Twilight. Ya know, if they want us to see the movie so many damn times, they should stop trying to sell us magazines, t-shirts, jewelry, stickers, tote bags, pins, key chains, etc…..
They are poised to make the decision on New Moon on November 22nd. I hope you’re all planning to see it on opening night. If not, we’re screwed.
What do you think? Will Summit’s strategy work?
