’Fifty Shades of Grey’ Box Office Record: Brings in a Massive $81.7 Million
"Fifty Shades of Grey" debuted big over Valentine's Day weekend, bringing in an estimated $81.7 million in its first three days. The movie is expected to surpass the $90 million mark over this four-day holiday weekend.
The highly-anticipated romance film, based on the popular book series written by EL James, set the record for highest debut opening ever over Valentine's and Presidents Day weekend. It broke the 2010 record of $63.1 million, which was set by "Valentine's Day," despite early scathing reviews. The film also became the second-highest February weekend debut ever after 2004's "Passion of the Christ," which brought in $83.9 million.
"Controversy, or at least the conversation that's created by 'Fifty Shades of Grey,' suddenly infuses this movie into the mainstream conversation," Senior box-office analyst Paul Degarabedian said according to EntertainmentWise. "They had to very carefully create a movie that was edgy, push the envelope, but without going too far to make it socially unacceptable."
"Fifty Shades of Grey's" opening was the fourth biggest in history for R-rated films. It was the second biggest for a female director. The number one spot belongs to "The Matrix Reloaded," which was co-directed by Lana Wachowski. The film, directed by Sam Taylor-Johnson, opened to big numbers internationally as well. It debuted in 9,637 locations across 58 territories and brought in over $150 million.
"Our fondest wishes were realized," said Universal's President of Domestic Distribution Nick Carpou. "This is one of those moments where I can speak for the entire studio and say we're celebrating."
The movie cost about $40 million to produce. It starred Dakota Johnson as Anastasia Steele and Jamie Dornan as Christian Grey. The film follows Ana's sexual journey into the bondage world after she meets the intimidating billionaire mogul, Christian.
