This past weekend marked a notably subdued period at the international box office, particularly outside of China where the Lunar New Year celebrations typically generate a surge in ticket sales. While several returning films continue to perform consistently, a couple of ambitious new releases attempted to break through the noise. Despite the overall quietness, some films are making headlines for achieving new milestones, revealing the dynamic nature of the global film landscape.
One significant development is the continued success of Disney’s animated feature, Moana 2, which has carved out a notable place in cinematic history. With an impressive global gross of $1.037 billion—surpassing predecessors like Finding Dory and Despicable Me 3—the film has now earned its spot as the ninth highest-grossing animated film of all time. As the film nears its theatrical run’s end, it reflects the enduring appeal of Disney’s vibrant storytelling and memorable characters. This achievement is a testament to the brand’s ability to resonate with international audiences of all ages, reinforcing Disney’s dominance in the animation sector.
Another key player in the box office arena is Mufasa: The Lion King, which has now amassed over $653 million globally. Its recent earnings showcase a steady but gradual decline, with the film bringing in $11.7 million this past weekend—a 29% drop from its previous performance. The international market has contributed significantly, with an overall overseas tally climbing to $423.5 million. The film has performed particularly well in key European markets, with France, the UK, Germany, Mexico, and Italy leading the pack. This longevity in ticket sales reflects audience engagement and the continued relevance of the Lion King franchise, rekindling nostalgia while also appealing to a new generation.
Studiocanal’s Paddington franchise is preparing for its North American debut on Valentine’s Day, but it has continued to charm audiences overseas, with recent earnings of $8.7 million from 51 international markets. Its global gross is inching closer to $100 million, currently standing at $93.2 million. The film’s adorable protagonist and delightful narrative have proven immensely popular, showcasing a trend of successful family-oriented movies that resonate across borders. The strategy of releasing the film ahead of the domestic audience demonstrates careful planning that taps into the emotional goodwill Paddington has cultivated since its inception.
Paramount’s Sonic the Hedgehog 3 also reached a remarkable milestone as it crossed the $450 million mark worldwide, now totaling $462.5 million. Despite facing challenges like a 38% dip in overseas earnings, with the film earning $7 million this past weekend, it has still carved a niche in various international markets. It stands as a testament to video game adaptations gaining traction in global cinema. The franchise’s broad appeal resonates particularly well in countries like the UK, Mexico, and France, proving that well-crafted narratives can breathe new life into familiar characters.
Amidst the holdover successes, a few new entries attempted to wrestle away audience attention. New Line/Warner Bros’ horror film Companion debuted in 60 overseas markets but only managed to secure $5.5 million, totaling $15 million globally. While it did see some traction in the UK, it underlines the challenges new films face in a crowded marketplace filled with established titles. From writer/director Drew Hancock, the film’s strategy will hinge on maintaining momentum as it enters additional markets in the coming weeks.
As observed, the international box office remains a complex ecosystem, perpetually shifting with the arrival of new films and the enduring popularity of holdovers. Disney continues to dominate with its animated offerings, while franchises like Paddington and Sonic show the strength of storytelling that crosses cultural borders. However, newer entries like Companion struggle to penetrate this competitive landscape. As the industry progresses into the next season, the evolving dynamics and audience preferences will undoubtedly shape the box office trends to come, making it a fascinating space to watch.