Christmas was a busy day for movie fans in the U.S., with people helping Disney’s “Mufasa: The Lion King” earn $14.7 million. The live-action film topped the box office on Christmas Day.
“Mufasa: The Lion King,” which came out on December 20, made $13.3 million on its opening day, but sales dropped afterward. However, it did better on Christmas, earning $14.7 million at the U.S. box office.
Robert Eggers’ horror movie “Nosferatu,” starring Bill Skarsgård, Willem Dafoe, and Lily-Rose Depp, made $11.5 million on its opening day Wednesday. This could be one of Eggers’ best openings, according to Deadline.
“Sonic the Hedgehog 3,” which also came out on December 20, made $10.3 million, bringing its total domestic sales to $88 million, according to Variety.
The Bob Dylan movie “A Complete Unknown,” starring Timothée Chalamet, came out on Christmas and made $7.2 million, including $1.4 million from Tuesday previews. Deadline says it could make $22 million in its first five days.
“Wicked,” which has been in theaters for over a month, made $5.4 million on Wednesday, raising its total domestic sales to $397.9 million.
This year’s Christmas box office has proven to be a festive celebration for moviegoers and studios alike, with Disney’s highly anticipated prequel, “Mufasa: The Lion King,” roaring to the top of the charts. The film, directed by Barry Jenkins, claimed the number one spot with an impressive opening weekend, cementing its status as a holiday favorite. Meanwhile, Robert Eggers’ gothic horror remake, “Nosferatu,” garnered significant attention, earning $11.5 million on its opening day, showcasing its ability to captivate audiences despite a niche genre.
“Mufasa” Dominates the Box Office
As a prequel to the 2019 live-action adaptation of “The Lion King,” “Mufasa” has managed to enchant audiences with its compelling storytelling and stunning visuals. The film delves into the origins of Simba’s father, Mufasa, exploring his journey from humble beginnings to becoming the revered king of the Pride Lands. Barry Jenkins’ visionary direction, coupled with Hans Zimmer’s stirring score, has been widely praised by critics and audiences alike.
The film opened to an estimated $65 million domestically over the weekend, making it one of the biggest holiday releases in recent years. Internationally, “Mufasa” has also made waves, bringing its global total to $120 million. Families, nostalgia-seekers, and fans of the original “Lion King” have flocked to theaters, making it a perfect holiday outing.
“Nosferatu” Defies Expectations
In stark contrast to the family-friendly appeal of “Mufasa,” “Nosferatu” offers a dark and haunting cinematic experience. Robert Eggers, known for his work on “The Lighthouse” and “The Witch,” has reimagined the 1922 silent classic for modern audiences. The film stars Bill Skarsgård as the titular vampire and Anya Taylor-Joy as the doomed heroine, bringing a chilling intensity to the screen.
“Nosferatu” earned $11.5 million on its first day of release, a solid start for a horror film competing during a traditionally family-oriented holiday season. The movie’s unique visual style, atmospheric tension, and strong performances have drawn praise from critics, while its unconventional release timing has sparked curiosity among viewers. With a reported production budget of $40 million, the film’s strong start suggests it could turn a profit, especially as word-of-mouth builds among horror enthusiasts.
A Diverse Holiday Slate
The Christmas weekend box office underscores the power of diverse offerings to attract a wide range of audiences. While “Mufasa” caters to families and fans of heartwarming narratives, “Nosferatu” appeals to those seeking something edgier and more provocative. This balance between mainstream and niche films reflects a healthy cinematic landscape that can satisfy varied tastes during the holiday season.
Other notable contenders include “Wish,” an animated fantasy that continued to draw younger audiences, and the action-packed “Gladiator II,” which performed well with adult viewers. Streaming services have also released high-profile titles, but the strong theatrical showings of “Mufasa” and “Nosferatu” prove that the big screen remains a vital part of holiday traditions.
Looking Ahead
With the success of “Mufasa” and “Nosferatu,” the Christmas box office serves as a reminder of cinema’s enduring appeal. As studios continue to experiment with innovative storytelling and diverse genres, audiences can look forward to more memorable moviegoing experiences in the years to come. Whether it’s through uplifting tales of triumph or spine-chilling journeys into the macabre, this year’s holiday season has something for everyone.
Published: 27th December 2024
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