‘Avatar’ Bigger Gross Than Expected

The original guesstimation for James Cameron’s “Avatar’s” opening weekend was $73 million. Well, it turns out the movie did much better than expected. “Avatar” opened with $77.3 million, barely beating “I Am Legend” to secure the best December debut ever in the United States.

20th Century Fox insiders warned that the numbers might shift, but they’re confident they’ll hold the record.

The film also brought in $159.2 million internationally, making it the sixth best international open ever, and the best for a non-sequel. It also set a record in India, having the biggest opening weekend for a Hollywood picture. It grossed Rupees 220 ($4.71 million). This beat “Spider-Man 3,” which opened at $4.12 million in 2007. The international number may shift as well.

The higher-than-expected domestic number brings the worldwide gross to $236.5 million.