The box office results for the last weekend in 2012 sees just about everyone receiving a financial gift from the Christmas holiday. The Hobbit remains on top in its third weekend while three newbies (Django Unchained, Les Miserables, and Parental Guidance) enjoy strong debuts. Plus, the holiday boost set a new yearly record for domestic grosses as they sailed past $10.6 billion. Here are the studio estimates:

1. The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey ($32.9 million)

2. Django Unchained ($30.6 million)

3. Les Miserables ($28 million)

4. Parental Guidance ($14.8 million)

5. Jack Reacher ($14 million)

6. This is 40 ($13.1 million)

7. Lincoln ($7.5 million)

8. The Guilt Trip ($6.7 million)

9. Monsters, Inc. 3D ($6.3 million)

10. Rise of the Guardians ($4.9 million)

Analysis

2009 was the highest grossing year of all-time ($10.59 billion) until 2012’s Christmas releases assisted in setting a new record just a few days ago.

With The Hobbit holding strong during the week (now over $620 million worldwide; $222.7 domestic), and Django Unchained (prod. budget of $83 million) and Les Miserables (prod. budget of $61 million) excelling past industry projections, business ends on a strong note for 2012. Look for all the above to experience a boom over the next two days as well thanks to the New Year’s Eve holiday.

Award favorite, Lincoln, currently holds the longest streak in the top ten with 8 weeks. Its domestic total is at $132 million off a production budget of $65 million.

Flop Alert: The Guilt Trip. It seems the Seth Rogen and Barbara Streisand “comedy” is the only release getting lost in the holiday-shuffle. With less-than-stellar reviews, a crowded party at theaters, and only grossing $21.2 million in two weeks, Paramount is going to have to make up the difference on this $40 million produced entry with a solid DVD/On-Demand run.

Skyfall dropped out of the top ten after 8 weeks, and is now up to $289.6 on the domestic front. The 23rd James Bond flick has a legit shot at reaching $300 million; a first for any installment in the franchise.

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey

By Joe Belcastro

Joe Belcastro is an established movie critic in Tampa, Florida. As a member of the Florida Film Critics Circle, most of his time is spent reviewing upcoming movies. He also covers news pertaining to the film industry, on both a local and national level as well as conducting interviews. To contact Joe Belcastro regarding a story or with general questions about his services, please e-mail him and/or follow him on Twiiter @TheWritingDemon.

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