'Minions & Monsters' Connects Internationally, 'Toy Story 5' Hits $764 Million

Key Points:

• "Minions & Monsters" earned $85 million internationally over the weekend and $98 million to date, contrasting with a franchise-low $61 million domestic debut over five days, including $39 million during the traditional weekend.
• The film has generated $159 million globally, with top markets including China ($16.3 million), Germany ($6.4 million), and the UK and Ireland ($5.8 million); international sales have historically been key to the "Despicable Me" franchise's success.
• Produced for $85 million, "Minions & Monsters" is slightly less expensive than previous entries and received positive reviews, potentially aiding its longevity despite domestic concerns.
• Box office analysts suggest "Despicable Me" fatigue due to seven films in 16 years, contrasting with the "Toy Story" franchise's slower pace, which may contribute to the strong performance of "Toy Story 5."
• "Toy Story 5" earned $69.3 million from 50 international markets in its third weekend, including a record $14.6 million opening in Japan, and has grossed $764 million globally, on track to surpass "Toy Story 4" as the highest-grossing film in the series.