The Avengers has smashed the US box office domestic revenue record with a debut of $200.3 million.
It is by far the biggest opening ever, shooting past the previous record of $169.2 million for the debut of last year's Harry Potter finale.
The American superhero film – produced by Marvel Studios and distributed by Walt Disney Pictures – sees Hollywood heavyweights such as Scarlett Johansson, Robert Downey Jr and Chris Hemsworth teaming up as superheroes to save the world from evil.
If distributor Disney's domestic estimate holds when the final weekend count is released, The Avengers would be the first movie ever to haul in $200 million in a single weekend.
Dave Hollis, head of distribution for Disney has said of the vast takings: "You hope that the magnitude of this kind of opening sends a signal that this is a for-everyone film.
"You can't put up these kinds of numbers if it's just for guys or just for the fans.
"These numbers say that it is for everyone, eight to 80."
Watch trailer here