SUBMITTED BY pimpjoe_esb

January 22, 2006 — English actress Kate Beckinsale's new horror film "Underworld: Evolution" easily led the North American box office during its first weekend, while Golden Globes glory propelled "Brokeback Mountain" up the charts, according to studio estimates issued on Sunday.

"Underworld: Evolution" sold about $27.6 million worth of tickets during its first three days, outpacing the $21.8 million bow of its hit 2003 predecessor, "Underworld." The films, both directed by Beckinsale's husband, Len Wiseman, were released by Sony Corp .'s Screen Gems.

The R-rated sequel centers on an ancient feud between vampires and werewolves. Sony said it would have been happy if the film had matched the debut of the first one. As expected for a gory tale featuring its comely star in tight black latex, the audience consisted mostly of young men, the studio said.

For the full report from Reuters, click the link below.