MANILA — The sequel “The Devil Wears Prada 2” debuted at No. 1 in the North American box office over the weekend, industry estimates showed Sunday, two decades after the original film brought audiences into the high-pressure world of fashion publishing.

The film features the return of Anne Hathaway’s character, who again works under the demanding editor Miranda Priestly, portrayed by Meryl Streep, as their fashion magazine faces an existential crisis.

Stanley Tucci and Emily Blunt also reprise their roles, joined by new A-list cast members and celebrity cameos. The film was released by 20th Century Fox and directed once again by David Frankel.

It earned $77 million in the United States and Canada, according to Exhibitor Relations.

“This is a sensational opening for a comedy drama,” said analyst David A. Gross of Franchise Entertainment Research, noting the film received “very good” reviews and carries themes of power, image, and success that “are more recognizable and relevant today than ever.”

Streep previously won a Golden Globe and received an Oscar nomination for her role as Miranda Priestly, a character widely believed to be inspired by former Vogue editor Anna Wintour.

Last week’s top film, the Michael Jackson biopic “Michael,” dropped to second place but still earned $54 million in North America. Directed by Antoine Fuqua and distributed by Lionsgate, the film chronicles the life of the late pop icon from childhood stardom to global fame. It stars Jaafar Jackson, the singer’s nephew, in the lead role and has grossed over $423 million worldwide.

In third place, “The Super Mario Galaxy Movie” added $12.1 million, bringing its domestic total past $400 million and nearing $900 million globally.

Amazon MGM’s sci-fi comedy “Project Hail Mary” placed fourth with $8.6 million, pushing its worldwide earnings above $625 million. The film stars Ryan Gosling as a teacher-turned-astronaut tasked with saving Earth from a dimming sun.

The indie horror film “Hokum” rounded out the top five with $6.4 million. Directed by Damian McCarthy and starring Adam Scott, it follows an author who visits a mysterious hotel in rural Ireland. It has received strong critical and audience reviews.

Rounding out the top 10 were “Animal Farm” with $3.4 million, “Lee Cronin’s The Mummy” with $2.23 million, “Deep Water” with $2.15 million, “That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime” with $1 million, and “The Drama” with $900,000. — AFP