Walt Disney's high-tech adaptation of Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol" topped the North American box office with lower-than-expected ticket sales of 31

million dollars (USD).

Industry pundits had forecast a three-day haul in the 35 to 45 million range for the Jim Carrey vehicle, which was directed by Robert Zemeckis.

Last weekend's champion, the Michael Jackson concert documentary "This is It" slipped to No. 2 with 14 million, taking its 12-day domestic total to 58 million.

George Clooney's military comedy "The Men Who Stare At Goats" rounded out the top 3 with a solid 13.3 million.

The critically acclaimed film, "Precious: Based on the Novel 'Push' by Sapphire" also opened up with very strong numbers in a limited release.

Joe Jackson, the elderly father of late pop star Michael Jackson, has filed a court petition seeking an allowance from the singer's estate, saying his son had

supported him for many years. Joe Jackson says his expenses exceed 20,000 per month.

Disappointed Britney Spears' fans reportedly walked out of her concert in Perth on Friday (November 6), igniting a lip-synching debate in Australia. Media reports

said fans walked out after only three songs during a performance.