The Warner Bros. animated penguin romp “Happy Feet” debuted with $42.3 million, capturing first position and leaving James Bond behind, which opened with $40.6 million and has now slipped to number two position on the box office.

Both movies are struggling for the number one position and are close enough that their rankings could change when final rankings will be released on Monday.

Paul Dergarabedian, president of box-office tracker Exhibitor Relations said:

Happy Feet’ is just ahead by a flipper. It’s unusual to have two movies this close, battling for that No. 1 position.

Dan Fellman, head of distribution for Warner, said:

“Happy Feet” was solidly ahead and that the rankings would not flip-flop on Monday. It’s not going to happen; it’s a clear victory here.” “Casino Royale” took an early lead over “Happy Feet” on opening day because of strong adult audiences Friday night. ‘Happy Feet” dominated the rest of the weekend, drawing big crowds on Saturday and Sunday when family films do their best business.

The box-office leader of the previous two weekends, “Borat”: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan,” slipped to third with $14.35 million, lifting its total to $90.5 million.

“Happy Feet” features the voices of Elijah Wood, Nicole Kidman, Hugh Jackman and Robin Williams in the story of a penguin who cannot carry a tune like his brethren but can tap-dance up a storm.

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