As the curtains close on another year in cinema, it’s time to take stock of the films that soared to new heights and those that crashed and burned at the box office. 2024 has been a year of surprises, with some unexpected triumphs and shocking disappointments.
Winners:
Global box office: $800 million | Production budget: $200 million
Pixar proves once again that they can turn abstract concepts into box office gold. This emotional sequel is on track to hit the $1 billion mark, providing a much-needed boost to theaters and reaffirming Pixar’s storytelling prowess.
Dune: Part 2
Global box office: $711 million | Production budget: $190 million
Denis Villeneuve’s epic sci-fi saga continues to gather momentum, significantly outperforming its predecessor. The spice is flowing, and so are the profits.
Bob Marley: One Love
Global box office: $179 million | Production budget: $70 million
This biopic struck a chord with audiences despite mixed reviews, demonstrating the enduring appeal of Bob Marley’s music and life story.
Late Night With the Devil
Global box office: $12.3 million | Production budget: N/A
A surprise hit in the horror genre, this low-budget found-footage film proves that clever concepts can still break through in a crowded market.
The Garfield Movie
Global box office: $230 million | Production budget: $60 million
Audiences embraced this animated feline adventure despite poor reviews, showing that sometimes brand recognition and timing are more important than critical acclaim.
Bad Boys: Ride or Die
Global box office: $289 million | Production budget: $100 million
This sequel proves there’s still life in the franchise and signals a successful comeback for Will Smith post-Oscar controversy.
(honorable mention)
Despicable Me 4
Global box office: $231 million | Production budget: $100 million
Family movies continue to dominate! This movie just was released this past Friday and has already doubled it’s production budget over it’s opening weekend. Breaking records even within the franchise.
Losers:
Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga
Global box office: $168 million | Production budget: $168 million
Without the star power of Charlize Theron and Tom Hardy, this prequel struggled to capture the magic of its predecessor, barely breaking even.
IF
Global box office $181 million | Production budget: $110 million
John Krasinski’s family-friendly fantasy about imaginary friends failed to capture enough real viewers to justify its hefty budget.
The Fall Guy
Global box office: $171 million | Production budget: $140 million
Despite its star-studded cast, this action-comedy based on a largely forgotten TV series failed to recreate the “Barbenheimer” magic its leads experienced in 2023.
Madame Web
Global box office: $100 million | Production budget: $80 million
Sony’s latest attempt to expand its Marvel universe fell flat, proving that not all comic book characters are created equal at the box office.
Argylle
Global box office: $96 million | Production budget: $200 million
Apple’s big-budget spy adventure turned into a financial disaster, showing that even tech giants can stumble in the world of blockbuster filmmaking.
The Watchers
Global box office: $29 million | Production budget: $30 million
This horror film failed to attract viewers, adding to a disappointing year for the genre and proving that familiar names behind the camera don’t always guarantee success.
(honorable mention)
Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 1
Global box office: $23 million | Production budget: $100 million
In a part one of three movie series written, directed, and starring Kevin Costner is off to a slow start. Getting great recognition at the film festivals did not translate to the casual audience.
2024’s box office results highlight the continued dominance of established franchises and the challenges faced by new properties and reboots. As the industry evolves, it’s clear that star power alone is no longer a guarantee of success, and audiences are increasingly discerning in their theatrical choices.
What do you make of these hits and misses? Let us know in the comments below! Be sure to follow @NoConCulture across all socials!
