Surprising no one, Star Wars: The Force Awakens took the top spot at this weekend's box office with $153.5 million.

J.J. Abrams' space epic not only dominated the North American charts over the Christmas weekend, it also managed to surpass $1 billion in global sales faster than any other movie in history.

Sean Anders' new comedy Daddy's Home, starring Mark Wahlberg and Will Ferrell, debuted in second place with $38.8 million, performing well ahead of Paramount's expectations. "This is a movie that the whole family can go to together. This is the Star Wars for comedy," studio vice chairman Rob Moore said told THR.


Following in third was Joy from director David O. Russell, which earned $17.5 million during its weekend debut. The film stars Hunger Games' Jennifer Lawrence as a struggling saleswoman. For our thoughts on the new drama, read our review.

Meanwhile, Concussion had a more modest opening, debuting in sixth place with $11 million, marking the lowest wide release opening for star Will Smith. That said, Sony remains optimistic about the film's future. "We're off to a good start, and the picture will resonate for weeks to come, distribution chief Rory Bruer said. "Will Smith's performance is really quite amazing."


Unfortunately for Alcon Entertainment, Point Break had a disappointing debut, especially when considering its $100 million budget. The extreme sports film placed eighth with just $10.2 million.

Rounding out the top 10 was Quentin Tarantino's The Hateful Eight, which, given its extremely limited 70mm roadshow release, performed quite well, earning $4.5 million. The Revenant also fared well over the weekend, earning an impressive $471,000 after opening in limited release in just four theaters.


Here are the top 10 weekend box office estimates via Rentrak:

1. Star Wars: The Force Awakens $153.5 million

2. Daddy's Home $38.8 million

3. Joy $17.5 million

4. Sisters $13.9 million

5. Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Road Chip $12.7 million

6. Concussion $11 milion

7. The Big Short $10.5 million

8. Point Break $10.2 million

9. The Hunger Games: Mockingjay, Part 2 $5.3 million

10. The Hateful Eight $4.5 million