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Angelina Jolie set to have her best ever opening as 'Maleficent' soars

The early estimates are in for Disney's 'Maleficent' with box office totals already hovering around the $24 million mark on Friday.

According to industry estimates, the film could come close to $70m over the weekend which would make this the best ever opening for Jolie. In retrospect, 'Mr and Mrs Smith' which hit theaters back in spring 2005 earned just over $50 million in its opening weekend, starring Brad Pitt and Vince Vaughn.

With Jolie's latest onscreen outing being her first major role in 4 years, studios will certainly be thrilled by her ability to draw in the fans at home.

Hype for the film went crazy this week when Brad Pitt was struck in the face on the red carpet as he was signing autographs along with Jolie. The event, which was heard around the world gave the film added attention for yesterday's opening.

Jolie also revealed in this in-depth interview shortly before her promotional tour how she got involved in the film and how hard it was to play Maleficent, a two-sided character.

'Maleficent' is currently playing in over 3900 theaters nationwide.

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