Across the nation, movie screens this past weekend pulsated with the pink reign of the Plastics as Tina Fey’s “Mean Girls” musical sashayed into the top box office spot. With a dazzling $32 million debut, the film proved the enduring love for the 2004 cult classic, even with a song-and-dance makeover. Fey’s clever adaptation for a new generation resonated deeply, earning a “B+” CinemaScore despite initial apprehension about the musical format. It seems the Plastics’ reign extends beyond Wednesdays.

Meanwhile, Jason Statham flexed his action hero muscles in “The Beekeeper,” delivering a potent punch that landed the film in a respectable second place with $16.8 million. Critics weren’t entirely convinced, but audiences were, giving it a solid “B+” CinemaScore. This bodes well for its international prospects, where Statham’s star power shines even brighter.

Not all ventures were equally triumphant. Sony and Legendary’s biblical satire “The Book of Clarence” stumbled out of the gate, landing with a disappointing $3.1 million. The $40 million film’s comedic take on faith proved a tough sell, raising questions about its global box office potential. Perhaps audiences preferred their laughs served a little less divinely.

On a sweeter note, Warner Bros.’ “Wonka” continued to charm audiences, adding $11 million to its coffers and surpassing the half-billion-dollar mark globally. Timothée Chalamet’s eccentric chocolatier remains a delightful treat, proving the power of whimsical fantasy even in the most cynical hearts. Who wouldn’t be lured by a world of everlasting gobstoppers?

Elsewhere, Sony’s R-rated comedy “Anyone but You” defied early doubts, climbing to $8.5 million this weekend. Its $56.4 million domestic total is a testament to its sharp humor and relatable cast, proving that sometimes, a good laugh is all you need. Even if it comes with a touch of R-rated raunch.

Finally, a slow burn success story emerged in A24’s holocaust drama “The Zone of Interest.” This powerful foreign language film, playing on only 25 screens, crossed the $1 million mark. Its nuanced exploration of human darkness, set against the backdrop of Auschwitz, is garnering awards buzz and promises to linger in the minds of audiences long after the credits roll. A somber reminder of the depths of human depravity.

So, as the curtains close on another Hollywood weekend, one thing is clear: audiences crave stories that move, amuse, and challenge them. Whether it’s singing Plastics or facing historical demons, there’s a captivating cinematic experience waiting for everyone. From high school satire to action thrillers, the box office offered a diverse buffet of narratives, proving that Hollywood’s menu is far from bland.