As we close out a remarkable weekend in the theatrical landscape, the setbacks faced due to recent calamities in Hollywood cannot be overlooked. While the numbers illustrate a strong performance by several titles, they stand as a backdrop to the sobering realities affecting many in the industry and beyond. Our thoughts are with all those impacted by the ongoing crisis as we delve into this weekend’s box office reactions and achievements.
Disney’s long-anticipated release, *Mufasa: The Lion King*, has not only made waves but is also carving out its place in cinematic history, securing its position as the ninth highest-grossing film of the year with an impressive $539.7 million globally. The film has attracted audiences abroad as well, raking in $350.9 million from international markets, which places it eighth on that particular chart. However, it experienced a weekend drop of 48%, generating $27.9 million during this period alone.
France leads the international tally with $33.7 million, closely followed by the UK ($29.9 million) and Mexico ($24.6 million). While Mufasa has had an encouraging performance overall, the decrease in weekend revenue may hint at the challenges ahead in maintaining its momentum.
In contrast, Robert Eggers’ *Nosferatu* is casting a mesmerizing spell over audiences, particularly in its international performances. The film has expanded into new territories, such as India and Lebanon, reaching a cumulative total of 63 countries. It has eclipsed the $50 million mark internationally, with an addition of $13.7 million this weekend, bringing its worldwide total to a haunting $135.8 million.
This is Eggers’ most successful film overseas, reaching new heights in 49 markets, including notable performances in the UK, Mexico, and Germany. As a horror film, *Nosferatu* is breaking conventional barriers and becoming a staple in international cinema, securing its place among box office champions.
Also riding the wave of success is Disney’s *Moana 2*, with its total inching closer to the billion-dollar milestone. This weekend, the sequel accrued $11.1 million internationally, leading to a total of $554.9 million from overseas and a nearly equivalent global gross of $989.8 million. Soon, it is expected that *Moana 2* will join the billion-dollar club, a feat that underscores Disney’s dominance in the 2024 box office landscape.
Despite a 58% overall weekend drop, the film showed resilience in several key markets. Notably, China experienced a robust gain of 16%, while it held steady in Argentina and Spain with minimal declines. *Moana 2* has set several milestones, including being the second highest-grossing animated feature ever in Brazil and France, and taking the lead for Walt Disney’s animated releases in multiple markets.
The beloved character *Sonic the Hedgehog* continues to draw audiences, as the third installment in the franchise accumulated $20.3 million across 62 international markets. The rough drop of 55% brought its overseas earnings to $180.3 million and a healthy $384.8 million overall. The UK, Mexico, and France have emerged as frontrunners in terms of ticket sales, contributing significantly to Sonic’s ongoing success.
Even with *Wicked* available on PVOD, the cinematic adaptation persists in captivating audiences overseas. This weekend, it amassed $5.6 million from 81 markets, nearing the $700 million global milestone with a current total of $697.6 million. Japan’s impending release could further buoy the movie’s prospects.
While box office figures paint a promising picture of recovery and success, they are enveloped in a context of tragedy and resilience. The global cinematic landscape continues to thrive, with titles crossing significant financial thresholds, but the real achievements lie in the unwavering spirit of those within the industry. Our thoughts remain with all those affected by recent events, and while we celebrate these successes, we are reminded of the human stories behind them.