Controversy Surrounding 'The Little Mermaid': Overseas Market Fails to Impress

According to reports, there are concerns about the financial balance of Disney's live-action film 'The Little Mermaid,' as it is expected to have higher box office revenue in North America compared to overseas. This is a rather unusual situation in the history of cinema. Media estimates suggest that 'The Little Mermaid' will gross around $300-350 million in the United States and Canada, while the overseas box office is estimated to be around $260 million.

Financial data indicates that if the film can achieve the aforementioned box office figures, it is likely to break even. With a production cost of $250 million and a global marketing budget of $140 million, the movie would have a chance to achieve a balanced budget. However, if the global box office stays around $400 million, the film might incur a loss of approximately $20 million.

In contrast to Disney's other live-action film 'Aladdin,' where 66% of its box office revenue came from the overseas market, 'The Little Mermaid' opened in China with only $2.5 million and is expected to struggle to reach a million-dollar gross. The media states that achieving a balanced budget relying solely on domestic box office performance would be a rare achievement, as typically 60% or more of the global box office of mainstream films comes from overseas.

The media also points out that Disney's other summer releases have received mixed reviews. 'Indiana Jones 5' (49% on Rotten Tomatoes) and Pixar's 'City of Crazy Elements' (58% on Rotten Tomatoes, projected $40 million opening weekend in North America) have both received less-than-ideal reviews.