Nicolas Cage and Diane Kruger search for clues in 'National Treasure '.
- Contributed Photo

LOS ANGELES (Reuters):

Nicolas Cage topped the North American box office for the second time this year on Sunday with National Treasure: Book of Secrets, a sequel to the biggest movie of his career.

The action-adventure led a crowded field of high-powered newcomers to sell an estimated US$45.5 million worth of tickets since opening Friday, distributor Walt Disney Pictures said.

The three-day sum, which was in line with expectations, compares with a US$35 million launch for 2004's National Treasure, which went on to make US$173 million. Cage spent two weeks at No. 1 in February with Ghost Rider, which started with $45 million on its way to $116 million.

1. National Treasure: Book of Secrets: US$45.5M

2. I Am Legend US$34.2m

3. Alvin and the Chipmunks US$29.0m

4. Charlie Wilson's War: US$9.6m

5. Sweeney Todd: US$9.35m

6. P.S. I Love You: US$6.5m

7. Enchanted US$4.15m

8. Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story: US$4.1m

9. The Golden Compass US$4.0m

10. Juno US$3.4m