Coraline, the stop-motion animated film by Henry Selick, celebrated its 15th anniversary with a solid performance at the domestic box office. The movie secured the fifth spot with $8.63 million over the three-day weekend, playing on 1,603 screens. The total earnings reached $11.6 million, surpassing its previous record for Fathom Events. Last year, Coraline became the highest-grossing classic release for the distributor, grossing over $7 million over four days. The film initially debuted in 2009, opening with $16.8 million and ultimately grossing $75.3 million in the domestic market and $127 million worldwide.
Based on Neil Gaiman’s popular 2002 book, Coraline revolves around a young girl of the same name, voiced by Dakota Fanning. The story follows Coraline as she discovers a parallel world hidden behind a secret door in her new home. Initially, this alternate reality seems perfect, mirroring her real life but in an enhanced way. However, as the adventure unfolds, Coraline finds herself in a dangerous situation when her other family members, especially the sinister Other Mother voiced by Teri Hatcher, try to trap her in this alternate world forever. The young protagonist must rely on her resourcefulness, determination, and bravery to escape and return home safely.
The film Coraline is currently playing in theaters until August 22, offering audiences the option to watch it in both 3D and 2D formats. In addition to its box office success, the movie has received positive reviews from critics and audiences alike. The PG-rated feature has captivated viewers with its unique storyline, visually stunning animation, and compelling characters. With many children still on summer break, Coraline is expected to continue attracting audiences throughout the season.
Alongside Coraline’s success, other films have also made an impact at the box office. Prathyangira Cinemas’ Hindi supernatural comedy horror Stree 2 directed by Amar Kaushik earned $2.18 million during its three-day weekend at 666 locations. This sequel to Stree (2018) generated substantial buzz in India, becoming the biggest opening of the year. The movie is based on an urban legend from Bangalore about a malevolent witch who lures unsuspecting men out of their homes, leading to their mysterious disappearance within 24 hours.
Roadside Attractions introduced My Penguin Friend, a heartwarming family comedy that debuted with over $1 million in earnings at 1,080 theaters. Inspired by a true story, the film showcases the bond between a lost penguin and a compassionate fisherman who rescued it from an oil spill. The heartwarming tale has resonated with audiences, receiving positive feedback on platforms like Rotten Tomatoes and Metacritic.
As the entertainment industry continues to evolve, films like Coraline and its counterparts demonstrate the enduring appeal of storytelling and visual artistry. Whether through animated adventures, supernatural comedies, or family dramas, audiences are drawn to narratives that inspire, entertain, and provoke thought. The box office success of these diverse films highlights the importance of creativity, innovation, and passion in filmmaking. As moviegoers seek captivating experiences at the theater, filmmakers have the opportunity to craft meaningful stories that resonate with audiences worldwide. Coraline’s 15th-anniversary celebration is a testament to the timeless magic of cinema and the power of storytelling to enchant and captivate viewers of all ages.