Jennifer Aniston's flick Marley and Me, based on the bestselling book about a family dog, was the surprise box office champ of the lucrative Christmas season, earning a big $51.7 million since Christmas day.

She beat her ex Brad Pitt, whose The Curious Case of Benjamin Button came in third with $38.6 million -- more than anyone expected for a serious adult film.

Adam Sandler's family flick Bedtime Stories snuggled between them with $39 million.

Tom Cruise's Valkyrie was fourth with a so-so $30 million.

The big budget, heavily hyped superhero flick The Spirit tanked with just $10.3 million.

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