Evan Almighty Disappoints at Box-Office

Although it performed strongest of last Friday's three major studio releases "Evan Almighty" has disappointed its producers, taking in just $32 million over the course of the weekend. (Its predecessor, "Bruce Almighty," made over $70 million on its opening weekend). Part of the reason for the disappointing returns might be Universal's decision to market the film toward Christian audiences.

Executives are especially worried because of the movie's ludicrously huge budget: at over $200 million for marketing and production "Evan Almighty" is the most expensive comedy in Hollywood history. For now, though, they're putting a brave face on things. Nikki Rocco, Universal's president of distribution, said, "We never expected it to be much higher. It is not unusual for family films to open at a level like this and build. This film will have legs." Rocco also said that the studio expects the film to do well overseas, which is not typical for Hollywood comedies; but Rocco has faith: "This is different; it's God," she said.