Normally, when we talk about the opening of films here at Airlock Alpha, we normally talk about the U.S. release. However, when we talk about "X2," like we are right now, we can talk about it not just opening in America May 2, but in 79 other countries as well.

The sequel to "The X-Men" will set a record this weekend for the largest ever "day-and-date" release in film history when it opens simultaneously in 80 countries and 93 separate markets.

The movie, which stars Ian McKellen, Patrick Stewart, Hugh Jackman and Brian Cox, will beat the previous record of "Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones," which last year opened in 74 countries simultaneously.

This is a good sign for a movie such as "X2" because it means the property is highly recognizable around the world, and doesn't need the snowball of American press to promote it in smaller countries around the world. The original "The X-Men" earned $300 million worldwide in 2000.

Talk about this story on the Airlock Alpha message boards. Click here!.