Universal/DreamWorks Animation’s latest release, *The Wild Robot*, has made a spectacular ascent in the global box office, surpassing the impressive $300.5 million mark as of Friday. Directed by Chris Sanders, this film has captivated audiences and critics alike since its premiere at the Toronto Film Festival in September. With $134.4 million earned domestically and a remarkable $166.1 million from international markets, it currently holds the position of the second-highest-grossing non-sequel film of 2024, trailing only *It Ends With Us*. This phenomenal performance positions *The Wild Robot* as the premier non-sequel animated feature of the year and ranks it as the fourth highest-grossing animated studio film both globally and domestically.
What stands out in the film’s earnings is its exceptional performance across various international markets. The staggered release strategy has shown dividends as the film has maintained strong audience retention during school holiday periods in numerous regions. Notably, it has eclipsed the lifetime earnings of *The Bad Guys* in international markets over the last weekend, marking a significant milestone for its comparative performance.
The film’s release in Mexico has been particularly noteworthy, where it has outperformed iconic films such as *Frozen*, *Zootopia*, and the *Sing* franchise, with earnings reaching $19.5 million. This achievement underlines the film’s emotional resonance with audiences, especially in a market increasingly appreciative of original animated content. Following Mexico, the United Kingdom and France show significant contributions as well, with earnings of $16.5 million and $12.1 million respectively, signaling robust international appeal.
Despite intense competition from other animated features like *Inside Out 2*, *Despicable Me 4*, and *Kung Fu Panda 4*, *The Wild Robot* has carved out a significant niche for itself. By becoming the tenth highest-grossing Hollywood animated film since the pandemic began, it reflects a growing appetite for animated storytelling that is fresh and emotionally engaging. Furthermore, as the third highest-grossing non-sequel animated film in that timeframe, it illustrates the evolving landscape of animated cinema post-pandemic, where audiences are increasingly drawn to original narratives rather than franchise continuations.
With the much-anticipated release in Japan scheduled for February 7, 2025, there is potential for the film’s earnings to soar even higher. The traction gained thus far suggests a favorable reception that may translate into increased interest and financial success in new markets.
*The Wild Robot* stands as a testament to innovative storytelling and the efficacy of well-planned release strategies in a fiercely competitive industry. Its box office achievements not only exemplify a successful film but herald a new era for original animated features that resonate deeply with a global audience. As it continues its cinematic journey, it will undoubtedly be a topic of discussion among animation enthusiasts and filmmakers alike.