New York - The new James Bond film, Quantum of Solace, brought in 70.4 million dollars in its North American debut weekend, a record for the 47-year-old series detailing the adventures of British secret agent 007.

The film, the second Bond movie starring Daniel Craig, not only beat industry expectations by 10 million dollars, but overshot 2006's Casino Royal by 30 million dollars. Until now, the most successful Bond opener brought in 40.1 million dollars with Die Another Day in 2002.

Bond beat animated animal comedy Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa, which fell to place two in its second weekend bringing in 36 million dollars. It has earned a total of 118 million dollars, making it the first film since August to surpass the 100-million-dollar mark. Place three went to the comedy Role Models starring Seann William Scott and Paul Rudd. (dpa)