"The Dark Knight" continues its historic assault on existing box-office records. On Tuesday, the film became the fastest to break the $400-million mark. And in the next day it should pass 2002's "Spider-Man" to become the highest-grossing superhero film of all time.

With nearly $43 million more in ticket sales over the weekend, the "Batman Begins" sequel also held off a strong new challenger, "The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor," and retained its current spot atop the cinematic box office.

At this rate, the film could pass three more blockbusters ... "Spider-Man," "Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest" and "Star Wars: Episode I -- The Phantom Menace" ... and break into the all-time top five. That's before the week is out. And it will likely pass "E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial," "Shrek 2" and "Star Wars" before it is done.

However, there's still some question as to whether the film could conceivably hit $500 million. And there's still that seemingly unsinkable boat, "Titanic" (1997) that sits atop the all-time list. That movie made $600 million in its original theatrical release.

View Comments

What are your thoughts? Does anyone think "Dark Knight" stands a realistic shot at toppling "Titanic?"

Looking for comments?
Find comments in their new home! Click the buttons at the top or within the article to view them — or use the button below for quick access.