The countdown has begun! A Minecraft Movie, based on the world-famous video game, is finally hitting the big screen. After years of anticipation, fans of the blocky universe are ready for a cinematic adventure like no other. But what can we expect from this movie? From its production journey to the exciting plot and the star-studded cast, we’re diving deep into everything you need to know about this highly anticipated release.
A Minecraft Movie has been in development for nearly a decade, with numerous changes in direction and production delays along the way. Originally announced in 2014, fans had to wait patiently as the project went through various stages of development. But now, the film is finally on track, thanks to the vision of director Jared Hess, known for Napoleon Dynamite.
The movie is being produced by Mojang Studios, in collaboration with Warner Bros. Pictures, ensuring that the essence of Minecraft is captured faithfully. The film aims to bring the world of Minecraft to life with spectacular visual effects and a storyline that resonates with both fans of the game and newcomers to the franchise.
A Minecraft Movie boasts an impressive ensemble cast, featuring Hollywood A-listers and rising stars.
Jason Momoa as Garrett “The Garbage Man” Garrison, the tough yet relatable outcast who must navigate the perils of Minecraft.
Jack Black as Steve, the beloved Minecraft character and mentor figure to the stranded adventurers.
Emma Myers as Natalie, one of the outcasts, whose bravery and ingenuity are key to their survival.
Danielle Brooks as Dawn, a resourceful and resilient team member who plays a vital role in the quest.
Sebastian Eugene Hansen as Henry, the more analytical member of the group who uses his knowledge of the game to help his team.
A Minecraft Movie will immerse audiences in a vast, pixelated world full of adventure and mystery. The movie will follow four outcasts who find themselves transported into the world of Minecraft and must figure out a way to get back to the real world. Their adventure is full of obstacles as they learn the ins and outs of the game in order to survive and escape.
Helping them on their quest is Steve, an experienced player who knows how to manipulate the game successfully. As the movie’s official synopsis suggests, the characters’ journey will revolve around them learning essential skills in the game that could change their lives in the real world.
The film also introduces formidable antagonists from The Nether, the dangerous dimension in Minecraft. These creatures are a constant threat to the Overworld, aiming to destroy joy and creativity. Now, the humans trapped within the game must not only find a way back home, but also protect the Overworld from certain doom.
Video game adaptations have seen impressive success at the box office, with a clear upward trend in their performance. Movies like The Super Mario Bros. Movie proved that a beloved game could be a cinematic success. In collaboration with Illumination, Nintendo created a major success, with the movie grossing over $1.3 billion worldwide. This success was followed by Sonic the Hedgehog franchise, which raked in over $1.2 billion globally, further establishing the potential for video game adaptations. Other noteworthy successes include Warcraft ($439 million), Rampage ($428 million), Uncharted ($401 million), and Five Nights at Freddy’s ($291.5 million).
These films’ strong box office performances reflect the immense fanbase and shows a high level of interest and anticipation for the films. With its dedicated global fan following, iconic world-building, and wide appeal across generations, A Minecraft Movie has all the right ingredients to be the next big box office sensation.
Since the first trailer dropped, Minecraft fans have been buzzing with excitement. The visual effects are stunning, bringing the pixelated world to life in a way that feels both familiar and breathtakingly new. The trailers showcase action-packed sequences, hilarious moments, and epic landscapes that capture the spirit of the game.
The highly anticipated Minecraft movie is shaping up to be one of the biggest films of the year! With over 300 million copies sold worldwide, Minecraft has become one of the most popular games of all time. Building on the video game’s success, the upcoming movie is set to capture the spirit of the beloved game, drawing inspiration from the game’s massive global fanbase. In particular, the gaming community in the Middle East, including residents from KSA and the UAE aged 18-64, has grown rapidly, making this film’s release an exciting global event. Contact us today to find out how you can advertise alongside this highly anticipated release.
A Minecraft movie hits theaters on April 3, 2025, and it’s sure to be one of the biggest events of the year. Whether you’re a Minecraft veteran or new to the world of blocks, this film promises an unforgettable adventure.
Source: IMDB, Entertainment Weekly, ScreenRant, Box Office Mojo, Collider
Cannes Lions has announced the 20 participants taking part in the 2025 See It Be It programme, representing 14 markets with Trinidad and Tobago and Venezuela included for the first time. Now in its eleventh year, the initiative aims to create a platform for women and non-binary people who face diversity challenges in the industry and enable them to become drivers for change in their respective regions by providing access to high-profile leaders, executive coaching, and mentoring opportunities with senior figures from across the industry.
Frank Starling, Chief DEI Officer, LIONS, said: “The See It Be It programme was established in response to the industry’s gender imbalance. Despite women representing 55.6% of adland’s workforce according to the 2024 IPA Agency Census, research from the Creative Equals states that only 24% of women globally are Creative Directors. As the industry’s gender gap widens, it’s more important than ever that we continue to provide global creatives with the tools to excel in their careers to help bridge this gap. This year, the programme received more than 1500 applications, showcasing its impact and the work put in by our impressive network of alumni. This collective continues to help grow our See It Be It community and pave the way forward for the industry. Congratulations to the 2025 cohort, and a big thank you to our alumni for all the work they do in furthering the impact of See It Be It.”
Taking place at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, between 16 and 20 June 2025, the programme includes mentorship opportunities and private masterclasses with industry leaders, as well as backstage access and session invitations tailored to each participant’s career goals.
The 2025 cohort will be supported by Mentor Atiya Zaidi, CEO & Chief Creative Officer, BBDO Pakistan, Pakistan, and Alumni Tutors Estefanía López, Strategy Director, Connections, TBWA\Chiat\Day New York, USA, and Nicky Lorenzo, Founder & Executive Creative Director, Twice on Sunday, USA.
Commenting on her appointment, Lorenzo said: “The ability to act as steward for this incredible cohort of immensely talented individuals is truly a privilege. See It Be It was – and continues to be – a driving force of inspiration, learning, and growth for me, and I hope to facilitate the same for this year’s cohort as they embark on this incredible journey. Now, more than ever, is the time to uplift women who deserve recognition and sponsorship.”
López added: “This cohort of incredible creatives honours the legacy of See It Be It and marks the first year of a new decade for the programme. It doesn’t get more iconic than this. Their voices will be pivotal in reshaping the future of our industry. As their tutor and friend, I look forward to helping them unlock their potential and realize that leadership isn’t about justification – it’s about owning your strengths and helping others do the same.”
Madonna Badger, See It Be It Chairperson and Ambassador, Founder/CEO/Chief Operating Officer, BADGER AGENCY, added: “As we celebrate 11 years of See It Be It, it’s clear that fostering diverse talent is no longer optional – it’s essential. This year’s cohort is a generation of creatives who aren’t just shaping the future – they’re redefining it with every bold idea and breakthrough. You’re proving that a more inclusive industry is not just possible, but unstoppable.
Through the pillars of negotiation, confidence, and resilience and adaptability, we will build together the tools to face any challenge with strength and grace. We can’t wait to see how you lead, inspire, and transform the industry. Your future is bright, and we are so excited to be in your star light!”
The 2025 cohort are named as follows:
Kyra Matthews – Associate Creative Director (Copy) from UAE & India has been selected as a participant at this year’s programme – where she’ll join 19 other creatives from various countries around the world.
Matthews is among the distinguished creatives who will benefit from this career-changing experience, reinforcing the UAE’s growing influence in the global creative landscape. This selection highlights the exceptional talent emerging from the region and presents a significant opportunity for Matthews to bring diverse Middle Eastern and South Asian perspectives to the international stage.
The Founders International Network will serve as the official media partner for See It Be It 2025. Stories from the cohort and the programme’s alumni will be shared via its podcast channel.
Further information on this year’s Festival can be found at canneslions.com.
Infinity Clinic Pharma, in collaboration with Motivate Val Morgan, executed an interactive offscreen activation campaign at Vox Cinemas, City Center Almaza in Egypt fromFebruary 13th to 15th, 2025. As part of the brand’s #FollowerToInfluencer campaign, this activation provided an exciting opportunity for moviegoers to interact with Infinity Clinic Pharma’s diverse product range while unlocking exclusive influencer opportunities. This initiative empowers Gen Z individuals (Aged 16 -25) to transform from everyday consumers into digital influencers by trying out Infinity Clinic Pharma’s premium products and sharing their experiences online. The #FollowerToInfluencer campaign is an ongoing initiative running throughout the year, offering multiple engagement opportunities at City Center Almaza and Mall of Egypt.
Over the course of three days, the concourse area of Vox Cinemas, City Center Almaza transformed into a vibrant hub where brand representatives distributed 3,000 curated giveaway bags containing exclusive product samples and a candle. The initiative aimed to delight, educate, and inspire moviegoers aged 16-25 (Gen Z) to become influencers. Uniformed brand ushers actively engaged with visitors, distributing campaign flyers and communicating the #FollowerToInfluencer concept to the target audience.
At the heart of the activation was a compelling call to action for attendees:
This initiative not only encouraged brand advocacy but also created an opportunity for young content creators to build their personal brand in the wellness and skincare industry.
Infinity Clinic Pharma is showcasing an impressive range of premium products during their activation, including Infinity Biovita, Infinity Omega RX, Infinity Valudual, Infinity HYALU Collagen Cream, and Infinity Purifying Cleansing Gel, among many others.
But the excitement doesn’t end there. The brand is set to extend its offscreen engagement throughout 2025 at City Center Almaza and Mall of Egypt, syncing with key festive and seasonal events:
With giveaways featuring a selection of Infinity Clinic Pharma’s top skincare and wellness products, this campaign is poised to make a lasting impact in the beauty and wellness industry.
As part of its year-long roadmap, Infinity Clinic Pharma is redefining experiential marketing in the region. The #FollowerToInfluencer campaign is transforming moviegoers into passionate brand advocates, strengthening audience engagement and brand loyalty in the process.
Interested in reaching your target audience through similar activations? Contact our team at Motivate Val Morgan to discover how we can connect your brand with moviegoers.
Super Bowl LIX, held on February 9, 2025 at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, was a remarkable convergence of sports, entertainment and culture. More than a championship game Super Bowl LIX was a major cultural event, renowned for its high-profile commercials and exclusive movie trailer premieres. Each year, major studios take advantage of this massive stage to unveil first looks at their most anticipated films, generating excitement among millions of viewers worldwide.
Last year’s Super Bowl movie trailers gave us a first look at now-Oscar-nominated Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande’s Wicked, as well as Ryan Reynolds’ superhero bro-fest with Hugh Jackman in Deadpool & Wolverine.
The Super Bowl has long been a coveted stage for premiering movie trailers and 2025 was no exception. From action-packed sequels to eagerly anticipated reboots, here’s a look at the standout movie trailers that made waves during the big game:
Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning
Tom Cruise returns as Ethan Hunt in what promises to be the ultimate adrenaline-fueled conclusion to the Mission: Impossible franchise. The Super Bowl spot delivered an action-packed preview of death-defying stunts, espionage twists, and edge-of-your-seat thrills. Fans can mark their calendars for the film’s release on May 22, 2025.
Thunderbolts*
The first two glimpses of Marvel’s Thunderbolts gave us plenty to be excited about, but the new Super Bowl trailer takes it even further. This latest look offers fresh footage, a deeper insight into what brings the team together, and a first peek at the film’s villain. The teaser hints at the team’s dynamic and the challenges ahead, building anticipation for its release on May 1, 2025.
Jurassic World Rebirth
Dinosaurs are set to dominate the box office once again with *Jurassic World Rebirth*. This latest installment offers a fresh take on the franchise, introducing new characters while revisiting the chaos of humans coexisting with prehistoric creatures. The Super Bowl featured a shorter TV spot, showcasing much of the same footage as the extended trailer, building anticipation for its summer release. In cinemas July 03, 2025
F1
We got our second look at F1, directed by Top Gun: Maverick’s Joseph Kosinski, gives us more high-speed action. Starring Brad Pitt as a former Formula One driver, the film follows his return to the track to mentor a rising rookie.The film is scheduled to hit theaters on June 26, 2025.
Novocaine
Jack Quaid (The Boys) stars in this superhero action comedy about a man who feels no pain that uses his malady to rescue the girl of his dreams after she’s been kidnapped. Directed by Dan Berk and Robert Olson, Novocaine—which also stars Amber Midthunder (Prey) and Ray Nicholson (Smile 2)— in cinemas on March 13, 2025.
How to Train Your Dragon
So far, we’ve seen two teasers for the remake of How to Train Your Dragon, but this 30-second Super Bowl spot offers the first glimpse of Hiccup (Mason Thames) and Toothless, capturing the magic of their first encounter. In cinemas June 12, 2025.
Lilo & Stitch
The classic animated tale of Lilo & Stitch gets the live-action remake and its Super Bowl teaser took an unexpected approach. Instead of a traditional trailer, the brief clip features Stitch causing chaos on the field—dodging staff, hijacking a cart, and ultimately crashing into a goalpost. In cinemas May 22, 2025.
Smurfs
In the animated family comedy, Smurfette (Rihanna) guides the Smurfs on a rescue mission to find Papa Smurf (John Goodman) after he’s been kidnapped.
Smurfs—which also stars the voices of Hannah Waddingham, Kurt Russell, Natasha Lyonne, Dan Levy, Octavia Spencer, Nick Offerman, Sandra Oh, Alex Winter and Xolo Maridueña—opens in theaters on July 17, 2027.
Source: Entertainment Weekly, Variety and Rotten Tomatoes
Discover all the upcoming Indian movies in 2025, including Bollywood, South Indian, and regional films, along with their release dates and star casts.
As we step into the exciting year of 2025, the Indian cinema landscape is brimming with promise and potential. The upcoming slate boasts a diverse array of genres, star-studded casts, and intriguing storylines that are sure to captivate audiences worldwide.
We have curated a comprehensive list of the most anticipated Indian movies set to grace the silver screen in 2025. From heart-warming romances to pulse-pounding action flicks, this lineup offers a wealth of opportunities for your brand to connect with engaged and enthusiastic moviegoers.
Whether you’re looking to tap into the star power of Bollywood icons like Deepika Padukone and Hrithik Roshan or capitalize on the regional appeal of Tamil and Telugu superstars, there’s something for every advertising strategy.
Release Date: February 6, 2025
Cast: Ajith Kumar, Trisha Krishnan, Arjun Sarja
Release Date: February 14, 2025
Cast: Vicky Kaushal, Akshaye Khanna, Rashmika Mandanna
Release Date: February 14, 2025
Cast: Mammootty, Gautham Vasudev Menon, Shine Tom Chacko
Release Date: March 7, 2025
Cast: John Abraham, Sadia Khateeb, Kumud Mishra
Release Date: March 27, 2025
Cast: Salman Khan, Rashmika Mandanna, Suniel Shetty
Release Date: March 27, 2025
Cast: Vikram, S.J. Suryah, Suraj Venjaramoodu
Release Date: March 27, 2025
Cast: Mohanlal, Prithviraj Sukumaran, Tovino Thomas
Release Date: April 10, 2025
Cast: Sunny Deol, Randeep Hooda, Saiyami Kher
Release Date: April 10, 2025
Cast: Ajith Kumar, Trisha Krishnan, Naslen
Release Date: April 10, 2025
Cast: Prabhas, Sanjay Dutt, Sai Pallavi
Release Date: April 10, 2025
Cast: Akshay Kumar, Amrita Rao,Arshad Warsi
Release Date: April 18, 2025
Cast: Varun Dhawan, Sanya Malhotra, Janhvi Kapoor
Release Date: May 1, 2025
Cast: Suriya, Pooja Hegde, Jayaram
Release Date: TBD, H2 2025
Cast: Rajinikanth, Nagarjuna Akkineni, Upendra
Release Date: May 2025
Cast: Yash, Kiara Advani, Darrell D’Silva
Release Date: May 1, 2025
Cast: Ajay Devgn, Vaani Kapoor, Riteish Deshmukh
Release Date: June 6, 2025
Cast: Akshay Kumar, Jacqueline Fernandez, Nargis Fakhri
Release Date: June 5, 2025
Cast: Kamal Haasan, Silambarasan TR, Trisha Krishnan
Release Date: July 25, 2025
Cast: Ajay Devgn, Mrunal Thakur, Sanjay Dutt
Release Date: August 14, 2025
Cast: Hrithik Roshan, N.T. Rama Rao Jr., Kiara Advani
Release Date: September 5, 2025
Cast: Tiger Shroff, Sanjay Dutt, Sonam Bajwa
Release Date: October 2, 2025
Cast: Rishab Shetty, Sriram Reddy Polasane, Sapthami Gowda
Release Date: October 17, 2025
Cast: Akshay Kumar, Wamiqa Gabbi, Tabu
Release Date: October 2025
Cast: Joseph Vijay, Pooja Hegde, Bobby Deol
Release Date: October, 2025
Cast: Ayushmann Khurrana, Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Rashmika Mandanna
Release Date: November 2025
Cast: Farhan Akhtar
Release Date: December 5, 2025
Cast: Shahid Kapoor, Triptii Dimri, Gourav Sharma
Release Date: December 25, 2025
Cast: Alia Bhatt, Sharvari, Einar Haraldsson
Unconfirmed 2025 Releases:
Leveraging the buzz around these highly anticipated Indian Movies provides an excellent opportunity for brands to connect with and engage the Asian audience in 2025. Contact us today to discover how the power of the big screen can help you achieve your brand objectives.
Please note that release dates and cast information are subject to change. It’s advisable to check official sources or the respective movie’s official channels for the most up-to-date information.
Source: IMDb, Bollywood Hungama
Harrison Ford joins Anthony Mackie in the cast of the 5th movie in the MCU’s Phase 5, Captain America: Brave New World.
The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is gearing up for a major return with the highly anticipated Captain America: Brave New World.
As the next chapter in the saga of the Star-Spangled Hero, this film promises to deliver a compelling narrative, thrilling action sequences, and cultural impact.
Following the immense success of Deadpool & Wolverine, this marks Marvel’s first big-screen offering in some time, setting high stakes for the franchise. It’s also Anthony Mackie’s first major outing as Captain America on the big screen, introducing two significant new villains that will reshape the MCU landscape.
The film continues Sam Wilson’s journey as the new Captain America, picking up after the events of Disney+ series The Falcon and The Winter Soldier. The plot sees Sam meeting the newly elected U.S. President Thaddeus Ross (played by Harrison Ford, making his MCU debut). As global tensions escalate, Sam uncovers a sinister international conspiracy threatening global stability. Racing against time, he must dismantle the mastermind’s deadly plan before it’s too late.
Helming this ambitious project is director Julius Onah, known for Luce and The Cloverfield Paradox. Onah’s talent for weaving intense, character-driven stories ensures this film will be a standout in the MCU. Speaking at San Diego Comic-Con 2022, Onah described the movie as a “paranoid thriller”—a promise of gripping suspense and edge-of-your-seat action.
The film features a stellar ensemble cast:
These dynamic characters bring a mix of heroism, tension, and intrigue to the screen, setting the stage for unforgettable performances.
Marvel’s dominance at the box office shows no signs of waning, with Captain America: Brave New World already generating significant buzz. Early projections estimate an opening weekend gross of $86 million to $96 million domestically, drawing comparisons to MCU heavyweights like Black Panther and Avengers: Endgame (Source: Deadline).
Marvel fans have been treated to a new official trailer for Captain America: Brave New World, unveiled during D23 Brazil. This latest look showcases dramatic story beats, including Isaiah Bradley’s attempt to assassinate President Ross, and offers a closer glimpse of Sam Wilson’s new Captain America outfit, complete with a cutting-edge flying mask.
As part of the MCU’s Phase 5, Captain America: Brave New World hits theaters on February 14, 2025. This Valentine’s Day, prepare for an action-packed celebration filled with suspense and iconic superhero moments.
The excitement surrounding Captain America: Brave New World is unmatched, offering brands a unique opportunity to connect with audiences. Secure your spot now and align your brand with one of the year’s most anticipated blockbusters. Contact us today to learn more.
Source: IMDB, Collider, Screen Rant, Deadline, Comic Book
The Batman 2 delay has sparked intense speculation about its future, as the sequel to Matt Reeves’ The Batman has been pushed back to October 2027. This unexpected shift has reignited debates about whether Robert Pattinson’s portrayal of the Dark Knight could integrate into James Gunn’s DC Universe (DCU).
This delay has sparked an intriguing discussion within the DC fandom: Could this be more than just a scheduling adjustment? As James Gunn himself noted on Threads, major productions like these require “typically around two years needed for pre-production, shooting, and post-production,” suggesting the complexity behind such epic undertakings. This timeline, while potentially disappointing for eager fans, speaks to the meticulous approach both Gunn and Reeves are taking with DC’s future.
View on Threads
The Batman 2 delay becomes even more intriguing when viewed alongside developments with The Brave and the Bold, DC’s other Batman project. Originally set to be directed by Andy Muschietti, this film was intended to introduce a new Batman to the DC Universe. However, reports of creative challenges have led to speculation about a different possibility: could Robert Pattinson’s critically acclaimed interpretation find a home in James Gunn’s broader DC Universe?
The timing of these developments is particularly significant as DC prepares to launch its new era with Superman in 2025. This film will establish the tone and approach of Gunn’s DC Universe, potentially offering crucial insights into how different interpretations of iconic characters might coexist.
The argument for keeping Reeves’ Batman in its own universe stems from the first film’s distinctive appeal. His Gotham City exists as a meticulously crafted noir landscape, where supernatural elements and cosmic threats feel distinctly out of place. The film’s power lies in its grounded approach to character study and crime drama, elements that some fear might be compromised by integration into a broader superhero universe.
However, history offers interesting precedents for such a transition. As many fans have observed, Christopher Nolan’s Batman trilogy began in similarly grounded territory before gradually incorporating more heightened elements. By The Dark Knight Rises, audiences had accepted a broader scope without feeling it compromised the series’ integrity.
Nerdist reporter Eric Diaz provides an illuminating comparison to the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s evolution. He notes that audiences leaving Iron Man in 2008 couldn’t have imagined that technological hero existing alongside ‘Asgardian gods, ancient sorcerers, and giant purple aliens.’ Yet Marvel successfully expanded its scope while maintaining coherence.
Eric also highlights the potential merger faces significant hurdles. Gunn’s DCU is conceived as a universe where superheroes have existed since at least World War II, as evidenced by elements like G.I. Robot in Creature Commandos. This established history contrasts sharply with the contemporary setting of The Batman.
Moreover, Gunn’s vision for Batman, as glimpsed in The Brave and the Bold’s premise, involves elements like a 10-year-old assassin Robin and an immortal Ra’s al Ghul – concepts that might feel discordant in Reeves’ carefully constructed reality.
The situation recalls Frank Miller’s seminal ‘Batman: Year One,‘ which demonstrated how a grounded Batman story could exist within a larger, more fantastical universe. This precedent suggests that different interpretations of the character can coexist meaningfully, each serving its own narrative purpose.
The imminent arrival of Superman in 2025 adds another fascinating dimension to this The Batman 2 delay discussion. As the first major release of Gunn’s DCU, it will demonstrate how the new regime balances realism with comic book elements. Its approach and success could directly influence decisions about Batman’s future, demonstrating how iconic characters blend grounded realism with fantastical elements while retaining their core appeal.
The path to 2027 may seem long, but it promises to be a transformative period for DC’s cinematic future. Whether operating in separate universes or eventually converging, what matters most is that each interpretation serves its core purpose: telling compelling stories that resonate with audiences.
The beauty of Batman as a character has always been his adaptability – his ability to be equally convincing as a noir detective and a Justice League member. As we await both the new Superman’s arrival and the Dark Knight’s return, perhaps we should celebrate this moment of creative possibilities rather than rushing to define its boundaries. After all, in the world of comic book storytelling, sometimes the most interesting stories emerge from the unexpected intersections of different worlds.
In the end, this period of uncertainty might be exactly what both franchises need – time to evolve naturally and find their place in the ever-expanding landscape of superhero storytelling. Whether we end up with two distinct Dark Knights or a unified vision, the passionate debate itself demonstrates the continued vitality of Batman’s legacy in modern cinema.
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Global Box Office Reaches $30.5B in 2024, Projected to Reach $33B in 2025
The Saudi box office kicked off January 2025 with a stellar start, recording over 850,000 admissions in the first two weeks. This remarkable achievement underscores unprecedented growth in both attendance and revenue for the Saudi cinema industry—an integral part of the Kingdom’s 2030 Vision.
According to data from our proprietary cinema advertising platforms CinePlan and CineMeasure, Saudi box office admissions surged by 85.85% in January 2025 compared to the last two weeks of December 2024. Additionally, admissions in the second week of January rose by 30% over the first, showcasing the Kingdom’s robust theatrical momentum.
A significant contributor to this growth was the exceptional performance of two Arabic films. The first, the Egyptian feature El Hana El Ana Feeh, made a modest debut with SAR 2 million in December. However, the film displayed remarkable staying power, recording SAR 5.9 million in its second week, SAR 6.5 million in its third week, and SAR 4.7 million in its fourth week. By January 11, the Arabic comedy had accumulated SAR 19.3 million, setting new benchmarks for Arabic-language cinema in Saudi Arabia.
The second standout performer was the Saudi production Hubal. After earning SAR 1.5 million in its opening week, the film achieved substantial growth, collecting SAR 7.5 million in its second week (ending January 11) and reaching a total of SAR 9.1 million.
Looking forward, the future of cinema in the GCC region, particularly in Saudi Arabia, appears exceptionally promising. Statista projects the GCC box office market to reach SAR 1.88 billion (US$500.40 million) in 2025, with Saudi Arabia contributing SAR 1.13 billion (US$301.40 million)—approximately 60% of the region’s total revenue.
The Saudi cinema market is poised to sustain strong growth, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.48% from 2025 to 2029, reaching SAR 1.35 billion (US$359.10 million) by 2029. Market penetration is also expected to rise from 16.0% in 2025 to 17.5% by 2029.
The broader GCC cinema market is also set for significant expansion, with a projected CAGR of 4.56% during the same period, potentially reaching SAR 2.24 billion (US$598.00 million) by 2029. User participation across the GCC is expected to climb from 20.7% in 2025 to 22.4% by 2029.
These growth projections highlight the significant potential of the regional cinema market, even when compared to mature markets like the United States, where box office revenues are expected to hit US$11.5 billion (SAR 43.13 billion) in 2025.
Saudi Arabia’s outstanding December 2024 and January 2025 box office performance, combined with these optimistic forecasts, affirms the nation’s ongoing cinema renaissance. The growth is driven by local film production, increasing demand for diverse cinematic experiences, and sustained investment in cinema infrastructure.
Further data reveals that Saudi Arabia’s cinema sector demonstrates strong consumer spending, with average revenue per viewer projected to reach SAR 186.38 (US$49.70) in 2025—well above the GCC average of SAR 148.65 (US$39.64).
Source: Saudi Ministry of Culture, Statista, CinePlan and CineMeasure
The Motivate Val Morgan cinema advertising circuit demonstrated exceptional performance in 2024, delivering impressive 33 million admissions in our eight market presence.
Our circuit witnessed a dynamic mix of international blockbusters and regional productions, creating compelling opportunities for advertisers to reach engaged audiences.
Market Performance and Regional Insights
Within our circuit, ‘Bad Boys: Ride or Die’ emerged as a dominant force across multiple markets – thanks to its excellent promotion in the region especially UAE by its lead actors Will Smith and Marin Lawrence, while family entertainment titles ‘Inside Out 2’ and ‘Despicable Me 4’ showed remarkable consistency in audience attraction. The strong performance of Arabic productions, particularly ‘Welad Rizk 3,’ highlighted the growing importance of regional content in our network.
Also 2024 is the year that marked yet another title that draws female audiences on a scale through Blake Livley’s ‘It Ends With Us.’
Our Saudi Arabia circuit continued to expand its influence, successfully balancing international releases with local content. The market’s enthusiasm for regional productions like ‘Gawaza Toxic’ and ‘Shabab El-Bomb’ demonstrated the evolving sophistication of our audience base.
In Egypt, our cinema network maintained its unique position, with local productions commanding significant audience attention. The success of films like ‘Welad Rizk 3,’ ‘Ex Merati,’ and ‘El Hareefa’ reinforced the strong connection between Egyptian cinema and our audiences.
The UAE circuit showcased our network’s diversity, successfully screening a multinational slate of content, from Hollywood blockbusters to acclaimed Indian productions like ‘Manjummel Boys’ and ‘The Goat Life.’
The analysis of top-performing films across the MENA region reveals a clear genre distribution pattern:
Action/Adventure (40%): Dominating the market with the largest share, represented by major releases like Bad Boys: Ride or Die and Gladiator II. This genre’s strong performance underscores the region’s continued appetite for high-stakes entertainment and spectacle-driven narratives.
Adventure/Family (33%): Securing a significant portion of the market with releases like Inside Out 2, Despicable Me 4, and Moana 2. The strong showing of this genre highlights the importance of family-oriented entertainment in the region’s cinema landscape.
Drama (13%): Particularly represented in Arabic cinema, with films like Welad Rizk 3 and various regional productions resonating strongly with local audiences.
Comedy (10%): Making its mark through both international and regional productions, demonstrating the universal appeal of humor across different cultural contexts.
Sci-Fi (5%): While representing a smaller share, films like Venom: The Last Dance and Godzilla X Kong: The New Empire maintained a dedicated audience base.
Check out our pick of Top 20 cinema ads as featured on Campaign Middle East.
Our network grew strategically in 2024 with key additions:
Our screens are set to showcase an impressive lineup in 2025, including:
This comprehensive analysis of Motivate Val Morgan cinema circuit performance in 2024 reflects our network’s ability to deliver diverse, high-quality content that resonates with audiences while providing powerful platforms for advertisers to reach engaged viewers.
According to Gower Street Analytics, the 2025 box office projections indicate global revenues reaching an 8% increase over 2024
Leading industry analytics firm Gower Street Analytics has released its latest forecast for the global cinema market, projecting box office revenues to reach $33 billion in 2025. Their forecast represents an encouraging 8% increase over 2024 estimates, signalling continued momentum in this entertainment sector.
The cinema industry demonstrated remarkable resilience, ultimately achieving approximately $30.5 billion in global revenues in 2024. This despite facing significant headwinds, primarily due to content pipeline disruptions stemming from the SAG-AFTRA strike. Initial forecasts had painted a concerning picture, with analysts predicting potential revenue declines of $5-8 billion and some even suggesting a possible regression to 2022 levels of $25.9 billion. However, the 2024 year-end numbers were far robust.
This impressive performance was largely driven by the strong reception of several major theatrical releases. The year gained momentum with the success of ‘Dune: Part Two,’ followed by a robust summer season featuring blockbusters such as ‘Inside Out 2,’ ‘Deadpool & Wolverine,’ and ‘It Ends With Us.’ The positive trajectory continued through year-end with anticipated releases including ‘Gladiator II,’ ‘Wicked,’ ‘Moana 2,’ and ‘Sonic 3.’
The Middle East market emerged as a particularly bright spot, successfully avoiding the content drought experienced in other international territories. This success can be attributed to the strong performance of regional Arabic-language productions such as ‘Lahazat Lazeeza,’ ‘El Hawa Sultan,’ and ‘Welad Rizk 3.’ The region further benefited from successful Asian cinema releases, including major Indian productions like ‘Pushpa: The Rule – Part 2’ and ‘Kalki 2898 AD’ ‘Manjummel Boys’ and more.
Looking ahead, the 2025 Gower Street Analytics’ detailed industry analysis reveals several key trends.
In the North American domestic market, projections indicate a 9% increase over 2024, with revenues expected to reach approximately $9.7 billion. This prediction was further validated by other film journalists such as Pamela McClintock, senior film writer at The Hollywood Reporter who predicted the North American domestic box office to reach $10 billion and more.
The international market, excluding China, is expected to generate approximately $16.8 billion, marking a 7% improvement over 2024 estimates.
The Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) region continues to show promising recovery trends, with 2025 revenues projected at $9.1 billion. This forecast positions EMEA at 6% ahead of 2024, making it one of the fastest-recovering international markets in the global cinema landscape.
The projected global revenue of $33 billion would position the industry at just 14% below the average of the pre-pandemic years (2017-2019), when adjusted for historical currency rates.
Though actual performance will ultimately depend on various market factors, these projections from Gower Street Analytics provide valuable insights into the industry’s trajectory, and the strength of the upcoming theatrical slate. The data suggests a continuing and gradual return to pre-pandemic performance levels, with some regions showing particularly encouraging signs of recovery.
As the region’s leading cinema advertising company, Motivate Val Morgan’s internal analysis aligns with these positive industry projections. Avinash Udeshi, Chief Operating Officer of Motivate Val Morgan, shares this optimistic outlook: “We have achieved 33 million admissions across our cinema circuits in 2024 – measured through our cinema planning and reporting tools CinePlan and CineMeasure. According to the advanced analytics prediction from the system, we anticipate a 7% increase in cinema admissions in 2025.”
“This projection further reinforces the positive trajectory of the cinema industry in the region and underscores the growing opportunity for brands to engage with cinema audiences.” He added.
The 2025 theatrical calendar promises an exceptional slate of highly anticipated releases that could further boost these projections. From Hollywood blockbusters like ‘Superman, Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning’, and ‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’, to Asian and Arabic titles such as ‘Dev (Hindi)’, ‘L2 Empuraan (Malayalam)’, ‘Sikander (Hindi)’, ‘Restart (Arabic)’ and many more blockbusters lined up throughout the year. Experience the excitement of what’s coming to theaters in 2025 by watching our exclusive sizzle reel here for a sneak peek of these upcoming cinematic spectacles.
Sources: Gower Street Analytics, Motivate Val Morgan CinePlan and CineMeasure, Saudi Ministry of Culture
