The Matrix Reloaded raised its international running total to $431m overthe weekend thanks in part to a decent opening in China that is expected toyield around $1.5m (RMB 12m).

Preliminary figures fromWarner Bros Pictures International included an estimated $230,000 (RMB 1.9m) inChinese previews.

The distributor said theopening was on a par with the RMB 12.1m bow of Harry Potter And The ChamberOf Secrets, no mean feat bearing inmind the recent SARS outbreak and piracy levels in the territory.

China is an importantemerging market for the distributor. Its Warner Bros International Theatresdivision recently staged a gala opening for its approved joint venturemultiplex in Shanghai, where it has also set up an integrated distribution andco-production office.

Overall The MatrixReloaded grossed an estimated $4.2mand 700,000 admissions from 2,176 international screens at the weekend.

The distributor also opened MyBig Fat Greek Wedding in Japan,where it is expected to gross around $700,000 (Yen 82m) from 192 screens. Anational holiday has delayed the release of final figures.