JENNIFER LOPEZ - LOPEZ + FONDA CLAIM THE TOP SPOT ON THE US BOX OFFICE CHART

JENNIFER LOPEZ's movie fortunes have taken a turn for the better in America - her new comedy MONSTER-IN-LAW has debuted at the top.

After a string of poorly-received flops, which was capped off by the much-criticised GIGLI, Lopez has proven she's got what it takes to become a box office star, with a little help from comeback queen JANE FONDA.

The two ladies' new movie, in which they play feuding fiancee and mother to ALIAS star MICHAEL VARTAN, was the weekend's box office chart-topper, with a $24 million (GBP12.6 million) take, according to early estimates.

Monster-In-Law raked in almost $5 million (GBP2.6 million) more than WILL FERRELL's new soccer comedy KICKING + SCREAMING, which debuted at number two.

JET LI's new martial arts film UNLEASHED was another high new entry - the violent movie debuted at three with a $10.6 million (GBP5.6 million) opening weekend take.

Last week's box office number one, KINGDOM OF HEAVEN, slipped to number four with a disappointing $9.6 million (GBP5 million) second weekend.

Meanwhile, the only other major studio release of the week, MINDHUNTERS, debuted at number 10 with a weak $2 million (GBP1 million) box office take.