The Story ⚡
Paul King’s Wonka led by Timothee Chalamet is taking a beating at the Nigerian Box Office.
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In its debut week, the Warner Bros production “Wonka” showcased its box office prowess, raking in an impressive N15.01 million across 48 locations nationwide. This marked a commendable performance, securing the film the coveted number 3 spot after the dominant Nollywood blockbusters, Ada Omo Daddy and A Tribe Called Judah.
Wonka initiated its cinematic journey with a weekend opening figure of N6.68 million. While this was an average start, it paled in comparison to the formidable openings of its Nollywood counterparts, with Ada Omo Daddy commanding a robust N30.49 million and A Tribe Called Judah soaring past the N100 million mark.
The contrasting weekend debuts highlight the competitive landscape at the box office during December underscoring the formidable presence of the Nollywood juggernauts alongside a fancy Hollywood musical led by the superstar actor Timothee Chalamet.
Top 5 Box Office (January 5-11)
5. WONKA
Wonka, the musical fantasy film directed by Paul King, skillfully unfolds the captivating origin tale of Willy Wonka. King, collaborating with co-screenwriter Simon Farnaby, seamlessly weaves a narrative inspired by Roald Dahl’s timeless 1964 novel, “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” immersing audiences in Wonka’s early years as a master chocolatier.
Headlining an impressive ensemble cast is Timothée Chalamet in the iconic role, supported by a stellar lineup featuring Calah Lane, Keegan-Michael Key, Paterson Joseph, Matt Lucas, Mathew Baynton, Sally Hawkins, Rowan Atkinson, Jim Carter, Rich Fulcher, Rakhee Thakrar, Natasha Rothwell, Tom Davis, Olivia Colman, and Hugh Grant. Produced by David Heyman, Alexandra Derbyshire, and Luke Kelly.
“Wonka” has garnered a stellar N35.88 million in just four weeks
4. Ada Omo Daddy
A young woman’s life takes a tumultuous turn as her biological father reemerges just before her wedding, unveiling her mother’s concealed past. Faced with a challenging decision between her two fathers, the narrative unfolds in this emotionally charged tale.
Directed by Akay Mason and Adebayo Tijani, with a compelling screenplay by Yakubu Olawale, the film boasts a stellar cast featuring Mercy Aigbe, Chiwetalu Agu, Sola Sobowale, Omowunmi Dada, Fred Amata, and more.
This cinematic gem struck a chord with audiences, grossing an impressive N186 million within just four weeks of its release.
3. Malaika
Malaika unfolds the poignant journey of a frustrated woman grappling with the challenge of conceiving, as she seeks solace through spiritual guidance. Helmed by director Steve Sodiya, the film features a stellar cast including Toyin Abraham, Muyiwa Ademola, Odunlade Adekola, and Uzor Arukwe.
Produced by Toyin Abraham, this cinematic masterpiece struck a chord with audiences, amassing a staggering N247 million within three weeks of its release.
The film’s compelling narrative and the exceptional performances of its cast have undoubtedly contributed to its resounding success, establishing “Malaika” as a standout accomplishment in the world of Nigerian cinema.
2. Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom
In a triumphant DC movie release, amassing a staggering N441 million during its third week, Aquaman finds himself pitted against the relentless Black Manta. Driven by a thirst for vengeance following his father’s demise, Black Manta wields the formidable power of the Black Trident, emerging as a formidable adversary.
To safeguard Atlantis, Aquaman forms an unexpected alliance with his imprisoned brother, embarking on a mission to ensure the protection of their kingdom.
The stellar cast, includes Jason Momoa, Patrick Wilson, Nicole Kidman, Amber Heard, and other talented performers.
1. A Tribe Called Judah
In its fourth week of release, the film achieved a groundbreaking milestone, surpassing the N1 billion mark and solidifying its status as the first Nollywood movie to achieve this remarkable feat.
The movie, centred around a plot involving five brothers scheming to rob a mall due to their mother’s financial struggles, boasts an ensemble cast featuring Funke Akindele, Timini Egbuson, Jidekene Achufusi, Olumide Oworu, Uzee Uzman, Tobi Makinde and other talented actors.
This unprecedented success underscores the film’s widespread appeal and resonance with audiences, signalling a significant milestone in the Nollywood industry.
What Happens Next?
Despite a promising start at its opening, Wonka finds itself facing a formidable challenge as it struggles to match the overwhelming success of Nollywood blockbusters.
The disparity in performance makes a comeback seem like a daunting task for the Warner Bros production.
In a global outlook, the movie has crossed the $500 million mark worldwide and becoming Warner Bros.’s second highest-grossing film of 2023. The milestone for the musical comes after earning $329.1 million in international markets, alongside the $176 million total coming from the United States and Canada. The achievement turns Wonka into the second highest-grossing Warner Bros. release of 2023, only below Greta Gerwig‘s blockbuster hit, Barbie.
In summary
With the failure of Wonka, one begins to question if Nigerians love watching musicals or maybe Wonka was just wrong timing for the december period.
