Sir Anthony Hopkins returns to the top once more, despite the latest figures questioning his "rite" to be there...

Despite its rather disappointing reviews and mix of indifferent viewer-related feedback, Sir Anthony Hopkins has once again captured the US box office; this time with his latest release, The Rite. However, while Warner Bros. are unequivocally trying to focus all media attention towards this latest achievement - one with which they are sure to flaunt in front of their competitors - it is the fact that The Rite has achieved said top spot from just a $15 million intake that has captured the internet's eye.

Despite massive advertisement and its award-winning cast, it would appear that The Rite has failed to capture its American audience successfully, with first week returns sure to disappoint all those involved with it. Furthermore, the $15 million taken across the US constitutes the smallest chart-topping return in the past three weeks, whilst also becoming the lowest opening weekend since the debut of George Clooney's The American in August of last year.

Conversely, it is worth noting that Hopkins' latest release cost just $37 million to produce - a minimal amount when compared to the three-figure budgets that have become common-practice in the 21st century - a cost which will ultimately prevent the film from being 2011's first flop. However, for the film to make a profit, it will need to achieve substantial international returns when it receives its global release in just short of a month's time.

The Rite, which is directed by Mikael Hafstrom, opens in the UK on the 25th February.

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