Big Weekend for ‘Devil Wears Prada 2’ as ‘Michael’ Crosses $400M
The Devil Wears Prada 2 opened to $77 million in North American theaters this weekend—topping the box office and bumping the Michael Jackson biopic Michael to second place, which crossed $400 million globally in its second weekend, according to studio estimates on Sunday.This weekend marked the official start of Hollywood's summer movie season, a crucial 18-week corridor that runs through Labor Day and often accounts for around 40 percent of the annual box office. With no major Marvel film leading the charge— the typical kickoff slot—the combined performance of The Devil Wears Prada 2 and Michael represented a substantial validation of mid-budget star-driven films and music biopics. The Devil Wears Prada 2 alone outperformed last year's summer kickoff Marvel film Thunderbolts, signaling that audiences continue to embrace stories without superhero IP attached.According to PostTrak exit polls, women drove the box office for the 20-year-old fashion franchise's return, making up about 76 percent of ticket buyers, with 74 percent saying they would "definitely recommend" the movie to friends. Meanwhile, Michael demonstrated staying power by holding onto $54 million in its sophomore frame. ...Opening WeekendThe Walt Disney Co.'s 20th Century Studios opened The Devil Wears Prada 2 in 4,150 locations across North