Israeli actress and Wonder Woman, star of Fast & Furious films, Walk of Fame honoree
The summer domestic box office has surged to $4.61 billion, the strongest season since 2013 and the best since pre-pandemic times. Filmmakers, not just blockbuster IP, have driven a rebound, with Gen Z audiences turning out in force and low-budget titles delivering surprise hits. Fall releases are expected to sustain momentum amid ongoing industry changes, including AI’s impact and a potential Warner Bros. Discovery deal.
Disney’s live-action Moana opens to a global $95 million, underperforming the $60 million U.S. target and facing scathing critics who call it a “shot-for-shot” redo. Audiences are warmer, with a CinemaScore A- and a largely female 66% share, while competition from new releases looms.