Lovable animated ogre Shrek turned rivals green with envy over the weekend when the film scored a record-breaking opening at the North American box-office.
Shrek the Third, the latest in a series of blockbuster sequels due to hit movie screens this year, netted $US121.6 million - the highest opening ever for an animated film, box-office tracker Exhibitor Relations says.
The opening was also the third biggest of any film in history - following Spider-Man 3 in first place ($US151 million) and Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest in second ($US135.6 million).
The third film in the Shrek franchise sees Mike Myers return to provide the voice of the ogre, who is saddled with the crown of Far Far Away whilst struggling to adapt to life as a father.
Though it has received mixed reviews, analysts say the film is effectively 'critic-proof' because of its popularity with children and family audiences.
The first two Shrek films have grossed more than $US1.4 billion worldwide since the franchise was launched in 2001, with 2004's second instalment raking in $US920 million alone. SOURCE: © 2007 Australian Broadcasting Corporation
Comment and add to the story without registration, but keep the comments meaningful please. Links are not accepted.
