New Line's horror pic and Disney's family comedy delivered a double win for the late summer box office, as well as a victory for two challenged genres.

American moviegoers are sending a loud and clear message to Hollywood: make critically acclaimed, original horror movies and we will come.

With Weapons leading a crowded weekend, the box office saw two major new releases challenge Marvel’s latest. While Freakier Friday delivered a strong debut, both it and The Fantastic Four: First Steps fell behind Zach Cregger’s horror hit.