Photo Credit: DC
As the world eagerly anticipates the release of “The Garfield Movie” on May 24, the beloved lasagna-loving cat has already begun to feast on the international box office. Garnering a tasty $22 million from just 18 markets, which represent a mere 35% of its global release plan, Garfield’s latest cinematic adventure is off to a roaring start.
The film’s early success positions it ahead of recent family animated releases such as “DC League of Super Pets” and “Puss in Boots: The Last Wish,” showcasing an impressive 76% and 41% lead, respectively. Notably, “The Garfield Movie” has had a particularly strong showing in Mexico, where it raked in $8.4 million over six days, and in Spain, with a $3.2 million haul over five days—the biggest animated opening since “The Super Mario Bros. Movie” in 2023.
Directed by animation veteran Mark Dindal, known for “Cats Don’t Dance” and “The Emperor’s New Groove,” the film promises a wild ride. Chris Pratt lends his voice to the iconic Garfield, who, alongside his canine pal Odie (voiced by Harvey Guillén), embarks on a high-stakes heist with his long-lost father, Vic (voiced by Samuel L. Jackson). The star-studded voice cast also includes Hannah Waddingham, Ving Rhames, Nicholas Hoult, Cecily Strong, Brett Goldstein, Bowen Yang, and Snoop Dogg, adding a rich layer of talent to the animated escapade.
In other animation news, “Kung Fu Panda 4” continues to strike gold, amassing an international total of $331.7 million and a global tally of $520 million. This fourth installment has surpassed the overseas earnings of its predecessor, “Kung Fu Panda 3,” as well as other animated hits like “Sing 2” and “Ice Age: Collision Course,” proving the enduring appeal of animated features.
As “The Garfield Movie” prepares for its domestic debut in the U.S. and Canada on Memorial Day weekend, it’s projected to earn $35 million over the long weekend. It faces competition from George Miller’s “Mad Max” prequel “Furiosa,” but with Garfield’s international momentum and the promise of family fun, it’s poised to be a box office hit.
The early International box office numbers are a testament to Garfield’s global appeal and the film’s potential to become a new favorite among animated moviegoers. With its blend of humor, adventure, and a touch of nostalgia, “The Garfield Movie” is set to charm audiences worldwide and leave them purring for more.
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