“Hotel Transylvania” became the biggest September opening ever with $43 million, perhaps surprising because it is one of three animated 3D horror movies for kids to be released within a 12-week period.  But what should no longer be surprising is that there is an enthusiastic audience for family movies.  I enjoyed this one and am happy to see it doing so well.  Hollywood, over to you.

Also this week — a strong showing for “Pitch Perfect,” with a per-theater take even higher than “Hotel Transylvania,” while the ambitious, provocative “The Master” and “Looper” struggled to find an audience.  Fall is usually a time for character-driven drama, but at the moment it looks like people are looking for something light and entertaining.