The Summer Movie Adventure Begins

[Geekyfanboy]

May could be huge at the box-office

Industry analyists are predicting that May's box-office could one of the biggest in Hollywood history reports Variety.

While there are only two franchise film opening in May, analyists predict that May's box-office results could equal or surpass the record-setting month May registered last year.  Last year, three major franchise "three-quels" opened in May–Spider-Man 3, Pirates of the Caribbean 3 and Shrek 3.  All three went on to earn over $300 million domestically and helped get the summer movie season off to a solid start.

This year, there are four event films hitting the big-screen in May.  Iron Man, Speed Race, The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian and Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull. 

But the real icing on the cake could lie in a series of smaller films with a more targeted demographic that will open this May.  Last year, the studios pushed back some releases to avoid competiting with the big "three-quels."  This year, there are several films targeted at women (Sex in the City, Made of Honor) and a broad-based comedy (What Happens in Vegas) that could have box-office legs.

"There's a lot of business that could happen at the box office," Universal president of distribution Nikki Rocco said. "It's always good when there's high anticipation for something new and inventive. It's what keeps moviegoers coming back."

Industry analysists are predicting that Iron Man and Crystal Skull could be a huge one-two punch in terms of blockbuster status.  Buzz and anticipation for Iron Man is peaking at the right time and Paramount has decided to open the film in selected theaters next Thursday as well.  And while there have been warnings from George Lucas to not set expectations for Crystal Skull too high, fans have waited close to 20 years for the long-promised continuation of the Indiana Jones story.

That said, Paramount is reminding the media and fans that Iron Man is not a sequel and that to expect Spider-Man 2 or Spider-Man 3 sized box-office returns might be a bit too lofty.

Along those lines, industry analysists predict that while Speed Racer could have a softer opening, it's PG rating could keep it around for a long run at the box-office.   The movie may have a difficult time taking the top-spot from Iron Man some observers say.

The summer movie season kicks off next week when Iron Man hits theaters and then doesn't slow down until at least August.