Jam! Movies
28 May 2001
view article

'Moulin Rouge' smashes Aussie box-office records
by Jam! Movies

The elaborate romantic musical "Moulin Rouge" has broken box-office records in star Nicole Kidman's native Australia, according to The BBC.

The film, which is set in 19th century Paris and co-stars Ewan McGregor, took in the Canadian equivalent of $2.9 million over the weekend, from May 24 to 27, The BBC said.

That was enough to smash the previous Australian record for biggest opening weekend gross, held by the comedy "The Dish". "Moulin Rouge" also shattered the 13-year-old record for one-day gross set by "Crocodile Dundee II."

The film's soundtrack and lead-off single, a remake of Labelle's "Lady Marmalade," currently top the Australian charts, as well.

Director Baz Luhrmann ("Strictly Ballroom," "William Shakespeare's Romeo And Juliet") shot "Moulin Rouge" in Australia.

The film is currently playing in 252 Australian theatres. It is scheduled to open in North America on Friday (June 1).