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 Jet Li Tops Box Office with �Hero� 


08-29-04
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(antiTainment) Jet Li dominated the North American box office this weekend with his film �Hero�, which brought in an estimated $17.8 million. The film was actually originally released two years ago in China and was nominated for an Oscar in 2003. Miramax released the film to North American audiences for the first time this past weekend. 

The strong opening for �Hero� also set a record for an Asian film release in the U.S., validating Miramax�s gamble of opening the film in 2,031 theaters. 

"Anacondas: The Hunt for the Blood Orchid," opened at No. 2 with an estimated $13.2 million gross, bumping last week�s No 2. "Without a Paddle" down one spot to No. 3 with an estimated $8.7 million haul. 

"The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement" dropped one spot to No. 4 this week, bringing in $8.1 million and the top 5 was rounded out by last week�s No. 1, "Exorcist: The Beginning," which had an estimated second weekend gross of $6.7 million. 
 
 
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