Hedgehog Beats Lion in Box Office Battle

This weekend, "Sonic the Hedgehog 3" dashed ahead, earning $25 million at 3, 761 North American locations. In comparison, "Mufasa: The Lion King" roared to second place with $13. 3 million from 4, 100 sites. Many thought it would be a close race, but "Sonic 3" left "Mufasa" in the dust. Even though December weekends can be slow, "Sonic 3" is off to a great start. It almost matched the $26 million opening day of "Sonic 2" from last year. Experts had predicted an opening between $55 million and $60 million, but "Sonic 3" is likely to zoom past that. The film is getting great reviews and fans love it.Director Jeff Fowler is back for the third "Sonic" movie. The hedgehog, voiced by Ben Schwartz, teams up with Tails, Knuckles, and his human friend to fight the evil Shadow and Dr. Robotnik. "Mufasa, " directed by Barry Jenkins, is an original prequel to the 2019 "Lion King" remake. It has a bigger budget but is expected to make more money overseas. While "Sonic 3" isn't opening internationally until Christmas, "Mufasa" is hoping for a strong holiday multiplier. "Moana 2" and "Wicked" are also doing well, with "Moana 2" set to pass "Despicable Me 4" in North America. "Homestead, " a faith-based drama, is hoping to reach $5 million in its opening.