Ne Zha 2 Hits $1.1 Billion in China; Mufasa and Paddington Also Thrive

Ne Zha 2 has achieved $1.1 billion in China, becoming the first film to hit this mark in a single market. It’s projected to reach $1.65 billion, potentially becoming the second-highest animated film globally. Other animated films like Mufasa and Paddington are also performing strongly overseas.

The international box office is buzzing over the phenomenal success of the Chinese animated film, Ne Zha 2, which has grossed $1.1 billion in China, making it the first film to achieve this in a single market. Current estimates project its total earnings could reach $1.65 billion, positioning it as the second-highest animated film globally and the 11th overall. After just 12 days of release, Ne Zha 2 has also set a record for the highest-grossing local language film in Imax history.

In other markets, Disney’s Mufasa: The Lion King remains the leading title internationally, earning $8.5 million this weekend, with a total gross of $671.1 million. Its major markets include France, the UK, and Germany, while hopes for reaching $700 million globally persist. Furthermore, Paddington in Peru has surpassed $100 million overseas ahead of its North American debut later this week.

Universal/DreamWorks Animation has expanded its release of Dog Man to 41 markets, accumulating a global total of $66 million. The UK released its film this weekend, outperforming movies like Kung Fu Panda 3 and Trolls 3, demonstrating strong demand for animated films. Additional key releases in major international markets are anticipated in the coming weeks.

The box office landscape has been significantly impacted by the success of animated films, particularly from China. Ne Zha 2’s unprecedented $1.1 billion gross marks a milestone in cinema history, emphasizing the growing market for animated features. Other contenders like Disney’s Mufasa and the newly released Paddington highlight the international demand for diverse animated storytelling. The expansion of films like Dog Man showcases the competitive nature of animated releases in global markets.

Ne Zha 2 is proving to be a historic success, leading the international box office with its record-breaking figures. The film’s performance could redefine animated film rankings, while competitors like Mufasa and Paddington demonstrate the increasing global appeal of animated features. As audiences await upcoming releases, the animated film sector is poised for continued growth and engagement worldwide.

Original Source: deadline.com