How Much Money Did “Coraline” Really Make? Unpacking the Box Office Success of a Stop-Motion Masterpiece

Coraline, Henry Selick’s breathtaking stop-motion adaptation of Neil Gaiman’s novella, wasn’t just a critical darling; it was a box office phenomenon. Released in 2009, this visually stunning and subtly unsettling tale of a young girl discovering a seemingly perfect, yet sinister, alternate world raked in a global gross of $124.6 million against a budget of around $60 million. This remarkable figure solidifies “Coraline” as a landmark achievement in animation and a testament to the power of unique storytelling.

Beyond the Bottom Line: Why “Coraline’s” Success Matters

While the raw numbers are impressive, they only scratch the surface of “Coraline’s” impact. This wasn’t just another animated film vying for the attention of children. “Coraline” dared to be different, embracing a darker tone and complex themes that resonated with audiences of all ages. Its success demonstrated that animation could be both commercially viable and artistically daring, paving the way for more sophisticated animated films in the years that followed.

The Magic of Stop-Motion

One of the key drivers of “Coraline’s” appeal was its meticulous stop-motion animation. In an era dominated by computer-generated imagery (CGI), Selick’s commitment to this painstaking art form set “Coraline” apart. The tangible texture and handcrafted feel of the characters and environments created a unique and immersive viewing experience that captivated audiences. The film’s visual splendor, combined with its compelling narrative, made it a must-see cinematic event.

Neil Gaiman’s Influence

Neil Gaiman’s source material was already a beloved story amongst young adult readers. Gaiman’s distinct voice, characterized by its blend of fantasy, horror, and poignant character development, translated seamlessly to the screen. The film retained the book’s core themes of identity, self-discovery, and the dangers of seeking perfection, ensuring that it resonated with fans of the original novella while also appealing to a broader audience.

Marketing and Distribution

Focus Features, the studio behind “Coraline,” executed a clever and effective marketing campaign that highlighted the film’s unique visual style and its blend of fantasy and suspense. They released intriguing trailers and promotional materials that emphasized the film’s distinctive aesthetic and hinted at the darker elements of the story, piquing the curiosity of potential viewers. The film’s 3D release also helped boost its box office earnings, as audiences were eager to experience the visually stunning stop-motion animation in a more immersive format.

“Coraline”: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions about “Coraline’s” financial success and its overall impact:

1. What was “Coraline’s” budget?

The production budget for “Coraline” was estimated to be around $60 million. This figure is relatively high for a stop-motion animated film, reflecting the immense amount of time and resources required to create the film’s intricate visuals.

2. How much did “Coraline” make domestically (in the U.S.)?

In the United States, “Coraline” grossed approximately $75.3 million. This represents a significant portion of its total worldwide gross, highlighting its popularity among American audiences.

3. How much did “Coraline” make internationally?

“Coraline’s” international box office earnings totaled around $49.3 million. While not as high as its domestic gross, this figure demonstrates the film’s appeal to audiences outside of the United States.

4. Was “Coraline” a box office success?

Absolutely! With a worldwide gross of $124.6 million against a budget of $60 million, “Coraline” was undoubtedly a box office success. It significantly outperformed expectations and solidified its position as a critically and commercially acclaimed animated film.

5. How does “Coraline’s” box office compare to other stop-motion films?

“Coraline” ranks among the highest-grossing stop-motion animated films of all time. While some CGI animated films have earned significantly more, “Coraline’s” success demonstrates the enduring appeal of stop-motion animation and its ability to compete with other animation styles. It’s comparable in its impact to films like “Chicken Run” and more recent features like “Missing Link.”

6. Did the 3D release of “Coraline” impact its box office performance?

Yes, the 3D release of “Coraline” significantly boosted its box office earnings. The immersive 3D experience enhanced the film’s visual appeal and encouraged audiences to see it in theaters, contributing to its overall success.

7. Did “Coraline” win any awards?

While “Coraline” didn’t win the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature (it lost to “Up”), it received numerous nominations and awards, including three Annie Awards (Best Music, Best Production Design, and Best Character Design). The film’s critical acclaim further solidified its reputation as a high-quality animated film.

8. How did “Coraline’s” success impact Henry Selick’s career?

“Coraline” solidified Henry Selick’s reputation as a master of stop-motion animation. It allowed him to continue pursuing his unique artistic vision and further explore the potential of this art form in future projects, such as “ParaNorman” and “Wendell & Wild.”

9. What is “Coraline’s” legacy in animation?

“Coraline’s” legacy extends beyond its box office success. It demonstrated that animation could be both entertaining and artistically ambitious. It inspired other filmmakers to push the boundaries of animation and explore darker, more complex themes in their work. The film’s influence can be seen in subsequent animated films that have embraced more sophisticated storytelling and visual styles.

10. Is “Coraline” considered a children’s movie?

While “Coraline” is animated and features a young protagonist, it’s often debated whether it’s strictly a “children’s movie.” The film’s darker themes and unsettling imagery may be too intense for very young children. It’s more accurately described as a family film that appeals to a broad audience, including older children, teenagers, and adults. Parental guidance is often recommended.

11. Is there a “Coraline” sequel planned?

As of today, there are no official plans for a “Coraline” sequel. Neil Gaiman has expressed interest in revisiting the world of “Coraline,” but no concrete plans have been announced. However, the enduring popularity of the original film suggests that a sequel could be successful if it were ever to be made.

12. Where can I watch “Coraline” today?

“Coraline” is widely available for streaming on various platforms, including Amazon Prime Video, YouTube Movies, and Apple TV. It is also frequently available for purchase on Blu-ray and DVD. Streaming options vary by region, so check your local providers for availability.