Korea Box Office: ‘Judy’ Debuts on Top as Cinemas Slump to Historic Lows

By Sonia Kil

LOS ANGELES (Variety.com) – The South Korean , which has been widely affected by coronavirus and has fallen to historic lows, was further hit by leading exhibitor CJ-CGV’s recent decision to shut 35 complexes nationwide, and to reduce screenings at those theaters remaining in operation.

Opening on Wednesday (Mar. 25), Oscar-winning drama “Judy” debuted on top of the box office. But it earned only $269,000 from 41,000 admissions over five days.

“The Invisible Man” and “1917” dropped to second and third places, respectively, from the previous weekend’s top spots. UPI’s “Invisible Man” earned $154,000 for a total of $3.82 million after five weekends on release. Sam Mendes’ war epic “1917” added $147,000 to extend its six-weekend total to $5.27 million.

Newcomer “Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark” opened on Wednesday and landed in fourth. The fantasy horror film earned $177,000 over its five opening days, including $105,000 at the weekend.

With few new films opening, exhibitors are largely relying on re-releases. Re-released on Wednesday, “La La Land” earned $127,000 over five days. Also re-released, Japanese animation “Weathering with You” and American musical drama “Fame” opened on Thursday and Wednesday, respectively. “Weathering” earned $47,000 over four days. “Fame” earned $23,100 over five days.