So far, moviegoing doesn't appear to be dramatically impacted in the greater L.A. area despite the historic fires raging across the region. Elsewhere at the box office, 'Better Man' bombed as it expanded nationwide.

With “Den of Thieves 2: Pantera” (Lionsgate), Gerard Butler displayed his bona fides as one of the most reliable draws for action releases. Opening at #1 with $15.5 million, it came in a little ahead of projections and led #2 “ Mufasa: The Lion King” (Disney).