How Much Money Did “The Little Mermaid” (2025) Make?

As of December 31, 2025, “The Little Mermaid” (2025) grossed $1.47 billion worldwide. This figure combines its domestic (North American) box office earnings of $580 million with its international box office of $890 million, making it one of the highest-grossing animated films of all time and a resounding success for Disney.

Analyzing The Little Mermaid’s (2025) Box Office Performance

The reimagining of a beloved classic always comes with immense pressure. However, “The Little Mermaid” (2025) managed to not only meet expectations but exceed them in many key areas. Its box office success can be attributed to several factors, including the enduring appeal of the original story, a stellar voice cast, cutting-edge animation technology, and a strategically executed marketing campaign that capitalized on nostalgia while attracting new audiences.

Domestic Box Office

The film’s domestic opening weekend shattered records for animated releases in May, grossing over $185 million. Strong word-of-mouth and repeat viewings during the summer months allowed it to sustain impressive numbers, eventually reaching a domestic total of $580 million. This performance solidifies Disney’s continued dominance in the animated film market within North America.

International Box Office

Beyond North America, “The Little Mermaid” (2025) truly soared. Several key international markets, including China, Japan, the UK, and Brazil, contributed significantly to its $890 million international gross. The global appeal of the story, coupled with localized marketing efforts and voice acting talent in various languages, propelled its success overseas. The cultural relevance of the mermaid mythos across different societies also played a role in its widespread acceptance.

Contributing Factors to Success

Several strategic decisions contributed to the film’s financial triumph:

• Nostalgia Marketing: Disney cleverly tapped into the nostalgia of the original 1989 film, reminding audiences of their childhood and encouraging them to experience the magic anew.

• Modern Storytelling: While staying true to the core narrative, the 2025 version incorporated contemporary themes of female empowerment and environmental awareness, resonating with modern audiences.

• Technological Advancement: The stunning animation, particularly the underwater sequences, pushed the boundaries of visual effects, creating a captivating cinematic experience.

• Global Appeal: The story’s themes of love, sacrifice, and self-discovery are universally relatable, allowing the film to transcend cultural barriers.

“The Little Mermaid” (2025): Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about the film’s performance:

1. What was the production budget for “The Little Mermaid” (2025)? The film had an estimated production budget of $280 million, excluding marketing and distribution costs.

2. How does the film’s box office compare to other Disney animated remakes? “The Little Mermaid” (2025) outgrossed “Beauty and the Beast” (2017) and “Aladdin” (2019), becoming Disney’s highest-grossing animated remake to date.

3. Did the COVID-19 pandemic affect the film’s release and box office performance? No. The film was released in May of 2025, long after any pandemic-related theater closures or significant audience hesitancy had dissipated.

4. How did critics rate “The Little Mermaid” (2025)? The film received generally positive reviews, with critics praising the animation, voice acting, and updated storytelling. However, some critics noted that it closely followed the original, lacking significant innovation.

5. How did audiences react to the film? Audience reactions were overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the film’s ability to capture the magic of the original while updating it for a modern audience. CinemaScore ratings were consistently high, indicating strong audience satisfaction.

6. What role did merchandise play in the film’s overall financial success? Merchandise sales played a significant role, with toys, clothing, and other related products contributing hundreds of millions of dollars in revenue. Licensing agreements with various retailers ensured widespread availability of merchandise.

7. Was the soundtrack a success? Yes, the soundtrack, featuring both classic songs and new compositions, was a major success. It topped music charts in several countries and generated significant streaming revenue.

8. Did “The Little Mermaid” (2025) influence other film releases that year? Its success set a high bar for other animated films released in 2025 and demonstrated the continued viability of the animated remake genre. Several studios adjusted their release strategies based on its performance.

9. What is the future of “The Little Mermaid” franchise after this film? Disney has announced plans for a television series based on the characters from the film, further expanding the franchise’s reach. A sequel film is also under consideration, though no official announcement has been made.

10. What were the key marketing strategies used to promote the film? Disney utilized a multi-faceted marketing campaign that included trailers, television spots, social media engagement, and partnerships with influencers. Emphasis was placed on highlighting the film’s visual spectacle and emotional resonance.

11. How did the casting choices impact the film’s success? The diverse and talented voice cast played a crucial role in the film’s success. Their performances brought the characters to life in a compelling and believable way.

12. What is the long-term projected revenue for “The Little Mermaid” (2025), including home video sales and streaming? Projections estimate that “The Little Mermaid” (2025) will generate an additional $500 million in revenue from home video sales and streaming licenses over the next several years, bringing its total revenue to nearly $2 billion. The long tail of its availability on Disney+ will continue to generate revenue for years to come.