WILL FERRELL - SEMI-PRO BOUNCES TO THE TOP OF U.S. BOX OFFICE

WILL FERRELL comedy SEMI-PRO has slam-dunked its way to the top of the U.S. box office, but with disappointing takings of just $15.3 million (GBP7.65 million) in its opening weekend (01-02Mar08). The movie knocked Vantage Point into the number two spot, with the Dennis Quaid thriller scoring $13 million (GBP6.5 million). In third place is The Spiderwick Chronicles with takings of $8.75 million (GBP4.37 million), and The Other Boleyn Girl opened in fourth with sales of $8.3 million (GBP4.15 million). Jumper fell from third to fifth with $7.6 million (GBP3.8 million). New release Penelope - starring Christina Ricci and Reese Witherspoon - landed at a disappointing eight, taking just $4 million (GBP2 million) at movie theatres.