Great reviews and an A-list star does not guarantee an automatic #1 debut at the box office, as newcomer Argo finished second to Taken 2, which took in $22.5 million.  Argo, directed by and starring Ben Affleck, had a solid debut with $20.1 million, and the feature should continue to ride its momentum on excellent word of mouth.  The Ethan Hawke led horror film Sinister, which was developed by Paranormal Activity producer Jason Blum, chimed in at third with $18.3 million.  In its third weekend, Hotel Transylvania surpassed the $100 million mark, as the animated feature collected $17.3 million.  Prospects are not good for Kevin James’ MMA comedy Here Comes The Boom, which limed to fifth place with a measly $12 million debut.

Rounding out the top ten are Pitch Perfect (#6, $9.34 million), the box office misfire Frankenweenie (#7, $7 million), Looper (#8, $6.3 million), Seven Psychopaths (#9, $4.3 million), and The Perks of Being a Wallflower ($10, $2.17 million).

Liam Neeson talks about the inspiration behind CIA operative Bryan Mills, the character he plays in the Taken films.  (To hear Neeson, click on the media bar below)

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posted by Greg Srisavasdi: @Gsrisavasdi