Universal and DreamWorks Animation’s latest endeavor, The Wild Robot, has made significant waves at the global box office, surpassing the $300 million mark. As of this past Friday, it reached an impressive total of $300.5 million, showcasing the growing appetite for animated films that resonate with audiences. Directed by Chris Sanders and released after its debut at the Toronto Film Festival, the film has captivated both critics and viewers alike, establishing itself as a cornerstone of 2024’s animation landscape.
Not only has The Wild Robot garnered critical acclaim, but it has also performed exceptionally well commercially. With $134.4 million earned domestically and a substantial $166.1 million from international theaters, it stands as the second-highest non-sequel studio film of 2024, trailing only behind It Ends with Us. More impressively, it boasts the title of the highest-grossing non-sequel animated film of the year, underscoring its appeal in a crowded genre filled with sequels and adaptations.
This film’s performance extends beyond mere numbers. It ranks as the fourth biggest animated studio release of the year worldwide, both domestically and internationally, sitting behind powerhouses like Inside Out 2, Despicable Me 4, and Kung Fu Panda 4. Such achievements highlight the film’s competitive spirit in an increasingly complex box office environment, making it a standout example of original storytelling in animation.
The Wild Robot’s international release has been impressive, with strong holds seen across various markets, especially during school holidays. The film’s journey has yet to be completed, with a release in Japan scheduled for February 7, 2025, which could propel its numbers even higher. In Mexico, The Wild Robot has notably outperformed several beloved animated titles, including Elemental, Frozen, and Moana, becoming the country’s top international animated film with a total of $19.5 million.
Europe has also embraced The Wild Robot, with significant grosses reported from the UK ($16.5 million), France ($12.1 million), and Australia ($11 million), among others. The film’s diverse appeal has allowed it to resonate with audiences of various cultures and backgrounds, further solidifying its place in the global animation arena.
As The Wild Robot continues to break records and garner attention, it prompts a broader conversation about the space for original stories in animation. While franchises often dominate the box office, this film serves as a testament to the possibility of success through uniqueness and authenticity. With audiences eager for original narratives and creative risk-taking, The Wild Robot not only carves its space in 2024’s animated offerings but also paves the way for future projects that dare to venture off the beaten path. As we await its release in additional markets, one can only anticipate how high The Wild Robot will soar in the coming months.