‘The King’s Speech’ poised to conquer ‘The Social Network’ at the box office

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Though the best picture contest at the upcoming Academy Awards is widely viewed as a race between ‘The King’s Speech’ and ‘The Social Network,’ a clear winner is emerging at the box office.

On its 12th weekend in theaters, ‘The King’s Speech took in $7.4 million in ticket sales, down a negligible 4% from the previous weekend. That’s particularly impressive given that it played in 321 fewer theaters.

Its box-office total is now $93.9 million. ‘The Social Network,’ meanwhile, stands at $96.6 million as it wraps up a theatrical re-release following its eight Oscar nominations.

Given its momentum, ‘The King’s Speech’ is almost certain to pass ‘The Social Network’ by the end of the week. Coming off a string of recent award wins and heading into the Oscars on Feb. 27, where it has 12 nominations, it’s clear the drama starring Colin Firth, Geoffrey Rush and Helena Bonham Carter has yet to lose its cultural relevance for moviegoers.

‘The King’s Speech’ is putting on a phenomenal performance for a low-budget release from an independent studio, placing it alongside this awards season’s other surprise smash hit, ‘Black Swan.’ The psychological thriller set in the world of ballet is only inches away from the $100-million mark, with a current box-office tally of $99.4 million.

-- Amy Kaufman and Ben Fritz