In a year without the usual blockbuster releases like Avatar or Spider-Man, Warner Bros has managed to give the holiday season a much-needed boost. Releasing three tentpole movies in December, the studio has seen tremendous success both domestically and internationally. With a combined gross of $700 million so far, Warner Bros has come out on top and proved that the movie industry still has the power to draw audiences to theaters.
Chairman and CEO of AMC Entertainment, Adam Aron, commended Warner Bros for its courageous decision to stick with its Christmas movie slate. In an industry where major studios are essential for the survival and growth of the movie ecosystem, Warner Bros’ commitment to theatrical releases has paid off. Audiences have rewarded the studio with a staggering $700 million at the box office, a testament to the enduring appeal of cinema.
Warner Bros/DC’s Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom has been a major contributor to the studio’s success this holiday season. The film generated an estimated $50.5 million from 77 overseas markets, experiencing a modest 33% drop from its opening weekend. With a cumulative international gross of $173.6 million and a global total of $258.3 million, Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom has solidified its position as a blockbuster hit. Notable market holds include France (+55%), Germany (+51%), and Italy (+17%).
Another Warner Bros release, Wonka, has also had a remarkable run at the box office. The film earned an estimated $39.1 million from 77 overseas markets, marking a 17% increase from the previous session. With a global total of $386.9 million, including domestic earnings, Wonka has captivated audiences worldwide. Strong market holds were seen in France (+92%), Germany (+40%), and Italy (+29%). The UK remains the top market for Wonka, with a total gross of $55.3 million.
Illumination/Universal’s Migration has become a surprise success, soaring to a 70% increase in overseas markets during the holiday season. The film has crossed the $100 million mark worldwide, with an international total of $46.5 million. Australia, a new market for Migration, contributed $2.9 million to its global earnings. The film has also seen significant growth in France (+116%), Germany (+100%), and Italy (+86%). With several markets yet to release, Migration’s global cume is expected to continue its upward trajectory.
Disney’s Wish has experienced a 39% rise in holdover markets, taking its international total to $115.8 million and global total to $176.4 million. The film has resonated with audiences, particularly in countries like the Netherlands (+138%), Italy (+92%), and France (+76%). Australia welcomed Wish as a new entry at No. 5, with a running total of $2.1 million. The film’s success is a testament to the power of nostalgia and heartfelt storytelling.
In local news, Chinese films also made an impact at the box office. Nostalgic drama Shining For One Thing earned an impressive $77 million in just two days. Another homegrown comedy, Johnny Keep Walking, secured the second spot with an estimated $32.4 million over a three-day period. These Chinese titles demonstrate the strength of domestic cinema and its ability to resonate with audiences.
As a notable departure from movies, Taylor Swift’s concert film, The Eras Tour, made its debut in China. The film earned an estimated $2.5 million on the Imax network, capturing a significant 42% of the nationwide launch day total. This impressive opening establishes a new record for Imax in China and highlights the immense popularity of Taylor Swift among Chinese audiences.
Warner Bros’ exceptional performance during the holiday season proves that the movie industry is far from losing its allure. Despite the absence of major franchises, the studio’s commitment to theatrical releases and high-quality content has paid off. Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom, Wonka, and other successful releases have demonstrated the enduring appeal and magic of cinema, ensuring that audiences continue to flock to theaters worldwide.