'Snow White and the Huntsman' the fairest film in the kingdom

Universal, chastened by its underperforming Battleship, said it only expected Snow White and the Huntsman to end up in the mid-$30 millions. Now the studio can be overjoyed, because the Kristen Stewart starrer earned $56.2 million over the weekend, more than Men in Black 3's debut. Since the special effects-heavy film reportedly cost $170 million, that number will also help recoup costs. Though Stewart has strong appeal among Twilight fans, the much-needed male demographic turned up too, comprising 43% of the audience.  Overseas, Snow White didn't do nearly as well, taking in just under $40 million. Most tentpoles perform better overseas than at home, so some are citing the lack of 3D as the cause, since the format has caught on particularly well abroad.

For Greater Glory, which is set during Mexico's Cristero War, earned $1.8 million while in around 750 theatres. The per-screen average of $2,400 per screen isn't awful, but it's not a sign of great weeks to come either.

Piranha 3DD managed to sink even lower than For Greater Glory's dismal per-screen average, clocking in with just $2,000 per screen in even fewer locations, for a lackluster total of $179,000. The horror comedy, which was aiming for the "so bad it's good" crowd, released day-and-date on Facebook and various on-demand outlets. Perhaps it had better luck there.

Two more indies with some mainstream appeal are doing particularly well. By dropping just 28%, The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel rose two spots to sixth place, coming in with $4.8 million. Moonrise Kingdom, which had a record-breaking per-screen average last weekend, rose 62% to $849,000 as it went from four to sixteen locations.

This Friday will have two big movies. Madagascar 3: Europe's Most Wanted will entertain children and families, and Ridley Scott's Prometheus is aiming for the adult thrill-seeking crowd.