The war film "300" destroyed the foreign competition this weekend as it garnered a strong $48 million in the 33 markets it played in. It took in double of what its closest four competitors' combined grosses were. It was especially strong in the U.K., where it finished with $8.9 million. Spain was also strong with a $6.3 million take for the Zack Snyder movie.
With a dearth of action movies in the weeks ahead, it could give "300" the same type of success that "Troy" enjoyed, which ended up with close to $500 million before it finished its run - over 70 percent of that was international.
"Norbit" was the nearest competitor of "300" as it drew $8.3 million from across 40 markets. Overall it has drawn $43.2 million overseas, with the U.K. being the strongest performer for them as well, bringing in $9 million since its release. Taking in all markets its total is $137 million.
Of the top three international movies this weekend, "Music and Lyrics" had the widest showing with its 54 markets. They were able to draw another $7 million, which now brings its overseas total to $68 million.
After leading the last three weekends, "Ghost Rider" dropped to a fourth place finish with a $5.4 million showing from 58 markets. It is closing in on $100 million overseas, standing at $95.4 million. Including all markets it has now reached $208.6 million total.
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