The global box office landscape can often feel like a rollercoaster ride, particularly in recent weeks where milestones have been crossed and new contenders are emerging. This past weekend proved to be an interesting one, filled with impressive achievements and yet marred by the backdrop of devastating fires in Hollywood. The industry feels the impact collectively, with thoughts and support extended to those affected. Here’s a closer analysis of how top titles performed during this significant weekend.
Disney continues to seize the spotlight this weekend, particularly with its release, *Mufasa: The Lion King*. The film has officially reached a remarkable milestone, becoming the ninth highest-grossing release globally for 2024, amassing an impressive $539.7 million so far. Approximately $350.9 million of this figure has come from international markets, placing it in the number eight spot on the overseas chart. Although the film experienced a noticeable drop of 48% this weekend, it still managed to bring in $27.9 million, reflecting consistent support from audiences.
Breaking down its international performance reveals some exciting figures. The film finds its biggest markets in France, where it made $33.7 million, the UK with $29.9 million, alongside other lucrative territories like Mexico, Germany, and Italy contributing solid amounts as well. The endurance of *Mufasa* showcases Disney’s power in global storytelling, continuing to draw audiences through its engaging characters and emotional depth.
The Chilling Success of *Nosferatu***
Meanwhile, Robert Eggers’ horror film *Nosferatu* is making significant waves in its international release. Recently opening in India and Lebanon, this production has spread its chilling narrative across 63 territories, ultimately bringing in an incredible $54 million internationally after a weekend addition of $13.7 million. This marks a new personal best for Eggers as a director, showcasing his growth in the horror genre and a strong demand for his creatively bold storytelling.
In terms of revenue, the international totals reflect a robust performance, with the UK leading the charge at $11.1 million, followed closely by Mexico and Italy. These earnings indicate that audiences are increasingly eager for films that explore darker themes, reinforcing the narrative that horror continues to captivate viewers worldwide.
Another standout performer this weekend is Disney’s *Moana 2*. With its enchanting narrative and stunning animation, the sequel is tantalizingly close to breaching the $1 billion mark, currently sitting at $989.8 million globally, thanks in part to an additional $11.1 million from international markets. Despite a 58% drop in ticket sales, the film has shown resilience, especially in markets like China and Spain, where it registered increases in performance.
The remarkable achievement of *Moana 2* includes being the second highest-grossing animated film of all time in several countries, including France and Brazil. Its dominance in markets across Latin America and Europe signifies a cultural resonance with diverse audiences, underscoring Disney’s ongoing relevance in global cinematography.
On the gaming front, *Sonic the Hedgehog 3* is enduring in its box office journey. This animated film added $20.3 million from 62 markets, leading to an overseas total of $180.3 million and a global sum of $384.8 million. The film’s ability to attract viewers, despite a competitive cinematic landscape, signals that the beloved blue hedgehog remains a pop culture icon whose adventures continue to enthrall audiences worldwide.
Lastly, *Wicked*, while available on premium video on demand (PVOD), is continuing to cast a magical spell over international audiences. With $5.6 million gleaned from 81 markets this weekend, the film is approaching a remarkable total of $700 million worldwide. The anticipation builds as fans in Japan await its release, promising even further growth in its overall earnings.
The weekend’s box office results reflect a dynamic landscape filled with both challenges and opportunities. As the industry contends with external impacts, the resilience of major films demonstrates the power of storytelling to unite audiences around the globe. Each title contributes to the broader narrative of cinema, illustrating the evolving tastes and preferences of viewers everywhere.