In mid-January, the international box office had some positive news amidst the challenging year ahead. Sony’s romantic comedy “Anyone But You” achieved a new milestone by becoming the highest-grossing R-rated romcom worldwide since 2016. With a total of $100.2 million, the film surpassed the success of “Bridget Jones’s Baby.” This accomplishment is worth celebrating in an industry focused on blockbuster hits and superhero franchises.
Paramount’s “Mean Girls” also added to the list of wins by resonating with UK audiences and opening at No. 1 in the country. The film’s popularity can be attributed to its relatable teenage drama and clever humor. This success serves as a reminder that international audiences appreciate well-crafted stories outside of the typical Hollywood blockbuster formula.
Warner Bros’ “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom” is on the verge of reaching a milestone that seemed improbable at first. The film’s impressive box office performance has propelled it to the brink of $400 million worldwide. This achievement showcases the enduring appeal of the superhero genre and the power of strong marketing campaigns to sustain long-term success.
Miramax’s action thriller “The Beekeeper” emerged as the top Hollywood movie at the international box office over the weekend. In its second week, the film generated an additional $14.2 million from 56 overseas markets, bringing its international total to $44.2 million. The film’s success can be attributed to director David Ayer’s distinct style and the star power of lead actor Jason Statham.
“Anyone But You” continued its strong international run by adding $10.6 million in 41 markets. This propelled the romantic comedy’s international cume to $36 million and its global total to $100.2 million. The film’s well-crafted storyline, coupled with effective marketing strategies, has contributed to its ongoing success. Notably, Germany debuted the film at No. 1, further solidifying its international appeal.
Continued Success for Wonka
Warner Bros/Village Roadshow/Heyday Films’ “Wonka” continued its successful run at the box office. With a total of $10.6 million in its latest weekend, the film has now amassed a global total of $531.8 million. The UK remains the top-performing market, with France, Mexico, Australia, and Germany also contributing significant box office revenue. The film’s enticing storyline and charismatic performances have resonated with audiences worldwide.
Searchlight’s critically acclaimed film “Poor Things” gained momentum on the international stage, earning $5.1 million from 19 markets. The film’s standout performance came in France, where it topped the box office with $1.1 million, surpassing the director’s previous work, “The Favourite.” With positive reviews and strong word-of-mouth, “Poor Things” has become a hit in new European markets. The film’s unique storytelling and compelling performances have captivated audiences around the world.
In IMAX news, “Queen Rock Montreal” achieved a significant milestone by becoming the biggest IMAX exclusive event opening ever. The film grossed an estimated $4.1 million globally, surpassing previous IMAX releases like “Stop Making Sense” and “Beatles Get Back: The Rooftop Concert.” The immersive experience of watching the iconic band perform their greatest hits in IMAX has reignited fans’ love for Queen and their timeless music.
Despite the challenges that lie ahead in the international box office, there are still reasons to celebrate. Films like “Anyone But You,” “Mean Girls,” “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom,” and “The Beekeeper” have defied expectations and achieved significant milestones. These successes highlight the diversity of audience preferences and the importance of storytelling in captivating global viewers. As the year progresses, it will be interesting to see how more films break barriers and make their mark in the international box office.