When evaluating the performance of each film studio in 2022, it is worth digging a bit deeper than the topline box office figures. Based on that alone, the number one ranking would go to Disney/Fox 20th Century studios for grossing $4.9 billion globally. This is largely attributable to two major blockbuster franchises, Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) and Avatar. The four sequels to Dr. Strange, Thor, Black Panther, and Avatar made up the lion’s share of the overall grosses.
Disney missed badly on their two primary animated releases, LIGHTYEAR, and STRANGE WORLD, leaving many in doubt over the future of big-budget animated features in theatres.
Universal and Paramount were responsible for the top three animated movies of the year, with MINIONS: THE RISE OF GRU, SONIC THE HEDGEHOG 2, and THE BAD GUYS. This non-Disney trend appears likely to continue in 2023, with THE SUPER MARIO BROS. MOVIE from Universal and Illumination is on track to become the top-grossing animated feature of 2023.
Most analysts agree that 2023 box office totals will exceed the $7.5B from the year that just concluded. Most analysts project a range of $8B – $9B, with Disney most likely retaining the top earner among Hollywood studios due in large part to the strength of the Marvel and Pixar lineup.