Rings movie takes top slot

By Phil Boeyen, ShareChat Business News Editor

Monday 18th March 2002

Film director Peter Jackson's movie epic based on The Lord of the Rings has dislodged Titanic to become the all time number one grossing movie in New Zealand.

Distribution company Roadshow Film says the movie "The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Rings" has laid claim to the position in record-breaking time, taking $12.898 million at the box office in New Zealand since its release just prior to Christmas

"Titanic, the previous record holder, took 45 weeks to reach the number one position at $12.967 million," says Roadshow executive Lisa Hubbard.

"The Fellowship of the Ring has easily surpassed this record by becoming the New Zealand number one all time top grossing movie in just 13 weeks."

Ms Hubbard says the achievement is a rewarding moment for all New Zealanders and a tribute to Peter Jackson and his passionate team.

"This box office record is confirmation of Kiwi's enthusiasm and support for this film. What better way to celebrate reaching the number one position than with a film made right here in New Zealand."

Roadshow says the movie has shattered countless records in its rapid climb to the top with the New Zealand opening day record of $720,933, the New Zealand opening week record at $2.945 million and the only film ever to have taken over $2 million in a weekend.

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