'Taken 2' makes $50 million opening weekend

Taken 2, starring Liam Neeson, has the third largest debut for an October movie, with $50 million.

Entertainment Weekly reports the movie has done just as well overseas, netting $55 million.

The worldwide total box office for the movie is now $117 million, according to E! Online.

Taken 2 has doubled the opening weekend profit of its predecessor, Taken (2009).

As the third biggest debut in October, Taken 2 sits behind Paranormal Activity 3 and Jackass 3D.

At 60 years of age, Liam Neeson has proven he is still a leading man in Hollywood action flicks. The movie is also Neeson's third biggest opener behind Star Wars: Episode 1 The Phantom Menance and Clash of the Titans (2010).

The film was given an average B+ from reviewers with the only drawbacks being how similar it is to the first film. However, through word-of mouth, Taken garnered $145 million in its time at the box office.

Taken 2 spent $42 million for production, and has already recovered the costs and made profit. Despite its impressive opening, excitement for the movie is expected to die down in the coming weeks.

A trailer for Taken 2 can be seen below.