Animated 'Rio' Film Is Already A Huge Hit Overseas

By Michael Lopez

Just because Rio hasn’t opened at your local theater yet doesn’t mean it’s not making money. So far the animated comedy has raked in over $55 million overseas, hitting the #1 weekly box office slot in over 32 different foreign markets.

It’s no surprise that Rio has found its biggest success on its home turf. Since opening in Brazil, the movie has earned over $8.3 million, making it the biggest-ever debut for an animated film in the country’s history. And that’s just one piece of the lucrative pie. Other areas where Rio has topped the box office include Mexico, Germany, and China.

“This is a fantastic start for a new franchise,” said Fox international co-presidents Paul Hanneman and Tomas Jegeus. “With consistently stellar reviews and excellent word-of-mouth around the world – as well as no significant family competition ahead – we are well established to take advantage of the [international] school holidays which begin in the coming weeks.”

Of course the big question is whether Rio’s colorful cast of toucans, monkeys, and bulldogs can take down Russell Brand’s Hop. His animated Easter movie has topped the American box office charts for two weeks in a row and it will be very interesting to see if it stays on top once the Rio characters come to town.

Are you excited about Rio? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Animation, Brazil, Cultura, Hot Stuff, Movies & CineMás, Rio