The global box office this weekend has shaped up to be a remarkable yet somber event as the film industry grapples with natural calamities that have swept through Hollywood and beyond. As announcements of milestones and box office successes flood in, there’s a palpable air of reflection as the community rallies against the devastating impacts of fire in the region. However, it’s essential to recognize the triumphs in the industry, especially as we march toward the final quarter of 2024.
Disney continues to make waves at the box office with “Mufasa: The Lion King,” which has climbed to the impressive rank of the ninth largest global release of 2024, garnering a staggering total of $539.7 million. Of this, $350.9 million has come from international markets, solidifying its position as the eighth highest-grossing film overseas. The film has experienced a notable dip of 48% this weekend, raking in $27.9 million, yet still shines brightly with top performances from key markets including France ($33.7 million) and the UK ($29.9 million). In a competitive landscape, such numbers reflect not just popularity but also the enduring power of Disney’s storytelling.
In a genre that often thrives on suspense and thrill, Universal/Focus’ “Nosferatu” is enchanting audiences with its alluring box office performance. The Robert Eggers-directed film, after its opening in India and Lebanon, has now reached a historical high, collecting over $54 million internationally and crossing the $135 million mark globally. With strong showings in markets such as the UK ($11.1 million) and Mexico ($6.03 million), Eggers has established “Nosferatu” as a standout in his filmography, marking it as his most successful international release to date.
Coming close to the coveted $1 billion milestone, Disney’s “Moana 2” has earned $11.1 million this weekend, raising its international earnings to $554.9 million. Global earnings now edge towards $989.8 million, with expectation set for crossing the billion mark in the following days. The film has shown remarkable holdovers in various regions, including China, where it reported a 16% increase. Notably, “Moana 2” has secured its place in history as the second highest-grossing animated film ever in Brazil and France, further solidifying its legacy and Disney’s supremacy in animated storytelling for 2024.
Paramount’s “Sonic the Hedgehog 3” continues to run strong, adding an impressive $20.3 million from 62 markets this weekend. With a global total standing at $384.8 million, it’s proving difficult for competitors to keep pace. The film demonstrates broad appeal with substantial earnings across varied international markets, including the UK and Mexico. As the franchise continues to evolve, the enduring popularity of Sonic is evident, inviting curiosity about future installments and potential expansions into new realms of storytelling.
Lastly, Universal’s “Wicked” shows no signs of diminishing returns, even with its availability on Premium Video On Demand (PVOD). This weekend, the film amassed $5.6 million in 81 international markets, pushing worldwide earnings close to $700 million. With Japan still awaiting its release, the potential for further revenue growth remains robust, showcasing the film’s magnetic allure that transcends mere viewing formats.
As we continue navigating through the challenges posed by environmental issues and their impact on production and distribution, these box office results exemplify the resilience of the film industry. While it is essential to celebrate these successes, the broader implications of recent events weigh heavily on the community. Looking ahead, studios must strategize not only to continue engaging audiences but also to remain aware of the world around them, focusing on recovery and sustainability as they craft future releases. The future of cinema remains bright, promising both creativity and community resilience in the face of adversity.