The World War Two epic romance PEARL HARBOR (2001) has clung to the top spot at the North American weekend box office - despite scores of poor reviews.

But the BEN AFFLECK-starring flick is barely holding off the hit cartoon SHREK (2001), according to studio estimates issued yesterday (03JUN01).

Pearl Harbor (2001) grossed about $30 million (£21 million) for the Friday-to-Sunday period (01-03JUN01), followed by Shrek (2001) with $28. 4 million (£20 million) and the new ROB SCHNEIDER comedy ANIMAL, the (2001) with $19. 8 million (£14 million).

After 10 days in release, Pearl Harbor has now pulled in $119. 3 million (£85 million), having cost a staggering $140 million (£100 million) to produce.

Despite such attacks as "Snore-a! Snore-a! Snore-a!" from the WALL STREET JOURNAL newspaper, audiences appeared more forgiving. Almost three-quarters of viewers said they would definitely recommend it and it is expected to reach $200 million (£142 million). (MCM/WNWR)

Source: WENN