Universal/DreamWorks Animation’s latest venture, *The Wild Robot*, has achieved remarkable success globally, exceeding the $300 million mark within a short span. The film, helmed by the talented Chris Sanders, has grossed an impressive $300.5 million as of Friday, with $134.4 million secured from the domestic market and an astounding $166.1 million generated internationally. This artistic endeavor has not only captivated audiences but has also positioned itself prominently in the competitive landscape of animated cinema. As the second-highest grossing non-sequel studio film of 2024, it trails only behind *It Ends with Us*, and holds the distinction of being the top non-sequel animated film from Hollywood for the current year.
*The Wild Robot* achieves significant recognition among its animated counterparts, ranking as the fourth biggest animated studio film of 2024 across global platforms. Its impressive box office numbers place it behind *Inside Out 2*, *Despicable Me 4*, and *Kung Fu Panda 4*. Following its premier at the prestigious Toronto Film Festival in September, the film started a staggered release in international markets and has remained resilient, showing strong holdovers during school holidays in various regions. This strategic release plan has undoubtedly contributed to its financial success.
A testament to its emotional resonance, *The Wild Robot* has surpassed previous box office records set by other beloved animated films, notably overtaking the lifetime offshore earnings of *The Bad Guys*. Its particular strength lies in markets such as Mexico, where it has outperformed numerous animated giants including *Frozen*, *Zootopia*, and both *Sing* installments. In fact, Mexico has emerged as the top overseas market for the film, accumulating approximately $19.5 million so far. Following closely are the UK with $16.5 million, France at $12.1 million, and Australia at $11 million, showcasing a diverse appeal across different cultures and regions.
In terms of historical context, *The Wild Robot* is now the 14th studio film to cross the impressive $300 million threshold in 2024, adding to the year’s success narrative. Furthermore, it is the tenth highest-grossing Hollywood animated film since the onset of the pandemic and ranks as the third highest non-sequel Hollywood animated title during this period, only exceeded by *The Super Mario Bros. Movie* and another notable film. This data reveals the film’s pivotal contribution to the ongoing revitalization of the animation sector, particularly as audiences return to theaters post-pandemic.
With Japan yet to release the film on February 7, 2025, there is still potential for *The Wild Robot* to increase its global box office figures. As it continues to connect with audiences worldwide through its storytelling and charm, one cannot overlook its significant impact on the animation industry, paving the way for future original content in a landscape often dominated by sequels and franchises. The film stands as a reminder that creativity and innovation can lead to extraordinary success, both financially and in audience engagement.
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