LOS ANGELES, Jan 6 — “The Desolation of Smaug,” the second instalment in Peter Jackson’s latest trilogy, remains in first place at the worldwide box office for the fourth consecutive weekend. The heroic fantasy film took in US$74.25 million (RM243.9 million) in revenues across 63 territories during the weekend ending January 5, according to Rentrak.

Bilbo Baggins's hold on the top spot is beginning to slip, however. After grossing over US$100 million for three consecutive weekends, “The Desolation of Smaug” saw its revenues drop to just over those of “Frozen,” in second place with US$73.22 million across 50 territories.

Still in third position, “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty,” directed by and starring Ben Stiller, took in US$39.70 million worldwide this weekend. The horror film “Paranormal Activity: The Marked Ones” was just behind in fourth place, grossing US$34.40 million in 25 territories during its opening weekend.

“47 Ronin,” starring Keanu Reeves, claimed fifth place with US$25.50 million. The fantasy action movie was followed by “American Hustle” (US$19.95 million), “The Wolf of Wall Street” (US$19.65 million) and “Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues” (US$16.50 million). — AFP-Relaxnews