James Cameron’s 3D science fiction epic Avatar led the US cinema to its highest earning weekend ever.
Box offices took in nearly 300 million dollars in North America over the Christmas weekend, initial studio estimates showed.
Avatar earned 75 million dollars in its second weekend, after breaking the US record for December releases in its opening. Since opening 10 days ago, the much-hyped Avatar has brought in 212.3 million dollars in the US and Canada and 467.9 million dollars worldwide.
British director Guy Ritchie’s unorthodox take on detective Sherlock Holmes earned 65.4 million dollars in second place. While animated sequel Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel landed at third place with 50.2 million dollars.
Romantic comedy It’s Complicated starring Meryl Streep and Steve Martin earned 22.1 million dollars in its opening weekend for fourth place. Up in the Air starring George Clooney rounded out the top five with 11.8 million dollars.