This past weekend brought forth notable achievements in the global film industry, reflecting a landscape filled with both celebration and concern. The box office has shown robust figures as we transition into 2024, with several major film releases making headlines. However, these triumphs are juxtaposed against recent tragedies affecting the Hollywood community, particularly due to the devastating fires that have wreaked havoc in the region. My thoughts are with all who have been impacted by these unfortunate events, especially our friends in the international box office community. As we navigate through these circumstances, let’s delve into the details of this weekend’s box office performance across the globe.
Disney’s latest cinematic venture, *Mufasa: The Lion King*, has emerged as a significant contender in the global arena, now ranking as the 9th highest-grossing film of 2024 with an impressive total of $539.7 million. This figure includes a solid $350.9 million from international markets, securing its position as the 8th highest in the offshore box office. Despite witnessing a 48% drop over the weekend, the film managed to collect $27.9 million, suggesting that audiences are still enchanted by the vibrant storytelling and stunning visuals that the Lion King franchise is known for.
The top international markets contributing to this success are France, the UK, Mexico, Germany, and Italy. Such figures highlight not only the film’s wide-reaching appeal but also the enduring popularity of the Lion King brand across various cultures and demographics.
Meanwhile, Robert Eggers’ *Nosferatu* is capturing the imaginations of audiences worldwide, continuing to perform remarkably well in theaters. This weekend, the film expanded its reach, officially opening in India and Lebanon, now boasting a presence in 63 territories. Surpassing the $50 million mark internationally with a weekend haul of $13.7 million, *Nosferatu* has achieved a total of $135.8 million globally. This marks a new high for Eggers as it represents his most successful film to date across 49 markets.
Key markets contributing to this achievement include the UK, Mexico, Italy, Germany, and Australia, reflecting the film’s intriguing blend of horror and artistry that resonates with diverse audiences.
On another thrilling note, *Moana 2* is fast approaching the coveted $1 billion milestone. The sequel netted $11.1 million this weekend, bringing its international total to $554.9 million and a global tally of $989.8 million. This achievement positions Disney as the only studio in 2024 to accumulate three $1 billion films, showcasing their ability to produce blockbusters that appeal to family audiences across the globe.
The journey of *Moana 2* has not been without its challenges, with a 58% drop from previous earnings this weekend. However, some markets, such as China, Argentina, and Spain, showed resilience, offering some hope for a rebound in the coming weeks.
The animated spectacle *Sonic the Hedgehog 3* continues to gain traction, earning an additional $20.3 million across 62 markets. This brings its overseas total to $180.3 million and a commendable global figure of $384.8 million. It’s evident that the blue blur remains a beloved character, particularly in the top markets of the UK, Mexico, and France.
In a similar vein, *Wicked*, despite being available for home viewing, remains a formidable player overseas. Earning $5.6 million from 81 markets, it is on track to surpass the impressive $700 million milestone globally. With Japan still yet to see its release, this figure may still climb higher as more audiences get a taste of this magical adaptation.
As we celebrate these box office achievements, it’s essential to acknowledge the adversity faced within the Hollywood community. The ongoing recovery from tragedy is a poignant reminder of the realities of industry life, even as we marvel at the success of these films. The resilience and creativity displayed by filmmakers and studios give us hope as they continue to tell compelling stories that resonate within and beyond theatrical settings. The coming months will undoubtedly offer more surprises and milestones, and as the global box office landscape continues to evolve, we remain excited about what lies ahead.