Box Office: 'Thor' defeats 'Bridesmaids'

Paramount's sci-fi action blockbuster "Thor" easily defeated its new competition at the North American box office this weekend to stay at the top of the chart, earning a solid $34.5 million in ticket sales from 3,963 sites. "Thor" lifted its domestic gross to a strong $119.2 million.

At No. 2, "Bridesmaids" picked up $24.4 million via an average of $8,365 per theater at 2,918 locations. That's a pretty darn solid result for the Judd Apatow-produced comedy starring Kristen Wiig and Rose Byrne. In the film, Wiig plays a maid of honor who had serious trouble handling a bunch of crasy bridesmaids.

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Good news: Christoph Waltz to star in 'Water'

Here's some good news for all Christoph Waltz fans (me included): the ruthless villain from "Inglourious Basterds" is apparently in talks to join Francis Lawrence's upcoming drama "Water for Elephants."

At least that's what Deadline Hollywood is reporting. Sean Penn was attached to the project, but no deal was made, and Waltz is now supposed to take over in the movie based on the book by Sara Gruen.

Reese Witherspoon and Robert Pattinson star in the film about a veterinary student (Pattinson) who quits school after the death of his parents and joins the Benzini Brothers Most Spectacular Show on Earth.

Witherspoon is set to play the circus' equestrian star, who is married to an animal trainer, the role Waltz will be taking on. He's both an asshole to his wife and his animals. Sounds just like the role for Waltz.

Waltz, of course, is nominated for an Oscar for this role in "Basterds," and if he doesn't win it, I will never ever watch or speak or write about the Academy Awards every again. There you have it.

Also, since his "Basterds" role, Waltz has been in high demand. He will play another bad guy in Michel Gondry's upcoming "The Green Hornet." Isn't he just the most brilliant villain ever?

Robert Pattinson, Sean Penn may drink 'Water'

"Twilight" star Robert Pattinson and Sean Penn may hook up with Reese Witherspoon for Francis Lawrence's upcoming drama "Water for Elephants," which Fox 2000 is prepping for a June start.

Variety says the two are in talks to star in the film about a veterinary student (Pattinson) who quits school after the death of his parents and joins the Benzini Brothers Most Spectacular Show on Earth.

Witherspoon is set to play the circus' equestrian star, who is married to an animal trainer (Penn). The film is based on the book by Sara Gruen. Richard LaGravenese ("Freedom Writers") is writing the script.

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