Early Thursday estimates show Unbrokengrossing in the mid- to low-teens for the day from 3,131 theaters. That’s ahead of expectations, and marks a victory for Jolie’s career as a director.

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Unbroken, based on Laura Hillenbrand‘s bestselling biography, stars Jack O’Connell as World War II hero Louis Zamperini. The Universal film follows Zamperini as he’s stranded in the ocean after a plane crash and then captured and tortured as a prisoner of war.Unknown

Heading into the long holiday, Unbroken was expected to earn $27 million to $30 million for the four-day weekend. Based on Thursday’s opening numbers, it is likely to cross $30 million.

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Into the Woods is expected to finish Christmas Day with $10 million or more in ticket sales from 2,440 locations, putting it in a close race with Unbroken. For the four-day holiday weekend, both films should cross $30 million.