'Batman v Superman' Strong-Arms Easter Weekend Box Office Sales

Studio estimates say Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice has earned an impressive US$27.7 million from its preview screenings.

Warner Bros released estimates on Friday, saying the haul from the Thursday night showings includes US$3.6 million from IMAX screens.

The film stars Ben Affleck and Henry Cavill as the dueling superheroes and cost a reported US$250 million to produce. Analysts predict it could earn around US$150 million this weekend, despite largely negative reviews.

The US$27.7-million debut is a record-breaker for the Easter weekend slot. Furious 7 previously held that title with its US$15.8-million launch last year.

But it's still a far cry from the biggest Thursday night opening ever. That distinction goes to Star Wars: The Force Awakens, which brought in US$57 million on a Thursday night in December.

- AP