th-6LOS ANGELES — “The Avengers” continues to muscle out everything else Hollywood throws at it, easily sinking naval rival “Battleship” and other new releases.

With US$55.1 million domestically, Disney’s superhero sensation remained No. 1 for a third-straight weekend and took in more than the three big newcomers combined. “The Avengers” is approaching the US$1.2 billion mark worldwide.

Universal’s “Battleship” opened at No. 2 with US$25.4 million domestically, adding to the US$226.8 million the board-game adaptation has earned overseas since launching in April.

Sacha Baron Cohen’s comedy “The Dictator” debuted in third-place with US$17.4 million for the weekend. Since opening Wednesday, the Paramount release has taken in US$24.5 million.

Lionsgate’s pregnancy comedy “What to Expect When You’re Expecting,” featuring Cameron Diaz and Jennifer Lopez, premiered at No. 5 with US$10.5 million.