'Hail, Caesar!' May Slow Universal's Momentum Following Strong 2015

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Universal's box office luck in 2015 was second-to-none. With the exception of a "Star Wars"-fueled frame for Walt Disney Co DIS, no other studio came close to the level of success held by the Comcast Corporation CMCSA-owned film giant.

With "Jurassic World," "Minions," "Pitch Perfect 2" and "Furious 7" reinvigorating Universal's key franchises and "Trainwreck" and "Straight Outta Compton" boosting original fare, the stage is set for continued momentum on 2016.

Clooney And The Coen Brothers At It Again

While Universal kicked off the year with the successful sequel to "Ride Along," it could see lower numbers this weekend with "Hail, Caesar!" The film comes from the Coen Brothers and features an ensemble of A-listers, including George Clooney. Investors recognize, though, that traditionally the Coens don't pull in wide crowds, despite being quality films.

These types of films draw a more art house crowd and usually benefit (when applicable) from word of mouth during award season. "Caesar" marks the first time the pair have ever released a film this early in the year, with their usual timeframe being a month later. Two of their most famous films, "Fargo" and "The Big Lebowski" each came out almost on the same day in March.

It is expected "Caesar" will be most of interest to an older female audience, followed by older men. Analysts expected the studio to make around $10 million this weekend largely off the appeal of the filmmakers and ensemble cast. Produced for $22 million, it shouldn't take much to re-coup any associated costs.

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Posted In: TechCoen BrothersGeorge ClooneyHail Caesar
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