Because movies haven't been doing well in theatres this year. Sure, Star Wars and Charlie were hits, but the box office numbers have been slumping all year. So it makes sense to - slightly - stagger this release. Set it for BIG openings in the three big cities, and get people to come there especially to see it. Then let word trickle out that everybody should see it, that it's a hit, and then on its wide-release weekend, more people than before will go see it. They're not taking any chances with throwing it out there, getting two hot weeks, and having the box office slump come back. This way they're guaranteed to get more press by having a limited - yet popular, in these big cities - release first.

It also could have something to do with what other movies are opening when. IE, isn't Harry Potter opening the week of the 11th?? The press surrounding that will be insane. Don't want anything else to get burried then.

I haven't seen the play yet, but I'm REALLY looking forward to the movie!