The global film business is expected to rise significantly in 2025, with box office revenues reaching $33 billion. This marks an 8% increase over the predicted $30.5 billion in 2024, which is still 14% lower than pre-pandemic levels.
North American theaters are predicted to lead the comeback, with revenues of $9.7 billion, up 9% from the previous year. Meanwhile, the foreign market, excluding China, is expected to earn $16.8 billion, a 7% increase. Despite persisting post-pandemic issues, these figures show that theatrical attendance is gradually recovering.
The forecasts vary by region. The Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) region is expected to generate $9.1 billion. The Asia Pacific region, excluding China and Latin America, is expected to generate $5.3 billion and $2.4 billion in revenues, respectively. Conversely, China has a more uncertain prognosis, with projections of $6.6 billion, as indigenous films increasingly dominate the market over Hollywood blockbusters.
Dimitrios Mitsinikos, CEO of Gower Street Analytics, predicts a strong year. “2025 is set to be a strong year for the global box office, driven by robust studio slates and independent productions,” the filmmaker said. However, he noted that currency swings and socioeconomic issues may impact international performance.
This upbeat view originates from an exciting slate of impending releases. Rob Mitchell, Gower Street’s Director of Theatrical Insights, mentions key franchise films such as the upcoming Avatar, Mission: Impossible, and Jurassic World sequels. The calendar also includes the premiere of James Gunn’s Superman and the finale of Wicked, as well as unique works by renowned directors, including Bong Joon-ho, Osgood Perkins, and Ryan Coogler.
Looking beyond 2025, Thomas Beranek, Chief Analyst at Gower Street, suggests that, while 2025 represents an improvement, 2026 might be even stronger, even being a “breakout year” for the business.
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These projections come after the film industry recovers from the disruptions created by the 2023 Hollywood strikes and adjusts to shifting market conditions. Analysts warn that these early projections could alter depending on release dates and the performance of currently nameless movies.
