MUMBAI: The initial DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc. 3D animated release Monsters vs. Aliens topped preliminary estimates to gross $59.3 million over the weekend at 4,104 locations, of which 1,550 were in 3D, including IMAX.

In so doing, the film broke several box office records: Biggest weekend debut of 2009, Best Opening for a 3D Film and Biggest Spring Opening for a non-sequel Animated Film.

The film, which was distributed by Paramount Pictures, grossed approximately $32.6 million on the 2,080 3D screens (including IMAX), which represents only 28 per cent of the film’s runs and accounts for 56 per cent of the total weekend gross.

"This gross tops even my best estimate for the weekend. It is a spectacular performance for this film and an impressive wide-release gross for 3D. It bodes well not only for DreamWorks Animation’s future films in 3D but for the entire 3D industry," says Paramount Pictures president of distribution Jim Tharp.

Friday night grosses were $16,765,000 and $24,303,000 was added on Saturday, the top box office day of the weekend, and an additional $18,243,000 on Sunday.