LOS ANGELES — In a turn of events that has left the entertainment industry both alarmed and deeply confused, Sam Raimi’s new horror thriller “Send Help” generated $2.2 million in preview screenings this week, as thousands of moviegoers misinterpreted the film’s title as a desperate, real-life emergency.

Eyewitnesses reported seeing mass mobilizations outside theaters, with concerned citizens rushing to buy tickets in hopes of providing assistance to the stranded fictional characters on the deserted island. “I thought maybe the cast was trapped inside the screen,” said Wendy Foxwell, 37, who brought a first-aid kit and several beach towels to an AMC in Burbank. “I just wanted to be part of the rescue team. I even called 911, but they said the only emergency was my spending $14 on popcorn.”

Industry insiders credit the film’s preview surge to the combination of moviegoer confusion and a nationwide desire to feel useful during a sluggish winter box office. “Frankly, we’ll take what we can get,” said Disney’s box office analyst Kevin Branton. “If next week’s release is called ‘Please Stay Awake,’ I expect another ten million.”

Lead actress Rachel McAdams expressed gratitude for the turnout, telling reporters, “It’s heartwarming to know people still care enough to show up and scream instructions at a fictional boat.” Meanwhile, director Sam Raimi was reportedly working on a last-minute sequel titled “Send Pizza.”

At press time, theaters confirmed several customers had formed bucket brigades in case the characters needed water.