Australian cinemas are experiencing a much-needed boost, thanks to the immense success of the movie “Barbie,” which is racing towards becoming the biggest film of the year. Despite initial challenges faced by cinemas, the popularity of this film has kept the doors open and ticket sales soaring, particularly in regional areas.
Greta Gerwig’s heartfelt comedy, Barbieheimer, as it is being referred to, has become a cultural event of significant proportions. The movie has a unique advantage, attracting large groups of women who attend together, creating what the distributor, Universal Pictures International’s managing director Mike Baard, calls “the book club effect.” This phenomenon, previously seen with “Mamma Mia!” in 2008, leads to repeat business as fans return for multiple viewings.
The nostalgia factor and its appeal to younger viewers have contributed to Barbie’s success, which has surpassed initial expectations. Cinema executives who originally projected a $20 million gross are now anticipating a staggering $75 million, and some even speculate it could reach $80 million.
Barbie’s triumph is being driven predominantly by women and girls, and it has also attracted patrons who hadn’t visited the cinemas this year, according to data from Hoyts’ loyalty program. The movie’s box office earnings briefly dipped when the Matildas played Canada in the World Cup, but it is expected to surpass the current top-grossing film of the year, “The Super Mario Bros Movie,” which earned $51.7 million.
In addition to Barbie’s success, Christopher Nolan’s epic film “Oppenheimer,” which opened on the same day, has also seen significant popularity. The marketing of both films has seemingly complemented each other, driving viewers to experience both productions.
“Oppenheimer,” with its appeal to a more even, older audience, was initially projected to earn up to $25 million but is now estimated to reach at least $35 million.
Worldwide, “Barbie” has raked in an impressive $850 million ($1.3 billion) and is poised to become one of the fastest non-franchise movies to reach $1 billion in box office earnings within a few days. The success of both “Barbie” and “Oppenheimer” serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring allure and impact of cinema, drawing audiences from all walks of life to experience the magic of the big screen.
