The 2019 comedy Little, starring Regina Hall, Issa Rae, and Marsai Martin, proved to be a box office success, grossing $49.0 million worldwide against a modest production budget. Its clever premise and star power made it a memorable entry in the body-swap genre, but the financial details tell an even more intriguing story.
Unpacking the Box Office Numbers of Little
Little offered a modern, refreshing twist on the classic body-swap trope, where a ruthless tech mogul, Jordan Sanders (Hall), wakes up one morning transformed into her 13-year-old self (Martin). This formula, coupled with a strategic marketing campaign, resonated with audiences, particularly young women and families. Let’s delve into the specifics of its financial performance.
The film opened domestically (United States and Canada) with $15.4 million, landing in the top five for its opening weekend. While not a blockbuster opening, it was a strong start considering the film’s budget and target audience. Its theatrical run ultimately yielded a domestic gross of $40.6 million.
Internationally, Little generated $8.4 million. Although not a major international earner, these overseas numbers contributed significantly to pushing the film into profitable territory. The film’s success was largely driven by its domestic performance, highlighting the strength of its appeal within North America.
Beyond theatrical releases, Little also generated revenue through home entertainment, including DVD/Blu-ray sales and digital rentals/purchases. While specific figures for these streams are not publicly available, they undoubtedly contributed to the film’s overall profitability, extending its lifespan and reach beyond the cinema.
Analyzing the Budget and Profitability
The production budget for Little was a relatively lean $20 million. This modest budget allowed the film to achieve profitability relatively quickly. Considering the $49 million worldwide gross and accounting for marketing and distribution costs, Little is estimated to have generated a significant profit for Universal Pictures.
The success of Little demonstrates that a film doesn’t need a massive budget to resonate with audiences and become financially viable. Clever storytelling, strong performances, and targeted marketing can often be more impactful than sheer spectacle.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Little‘s Financial Performance
What was the exact opening weekend gross for Little in the United States?
Little earned $15.4 million in its opening weekend across the United States and Canada. This put it in a competitive position, securing a place within the top five films for that week.
Did Little perform better domestically or internationally?
Little overwhelmingly performed better domestically. Its domestic gross was $40.6 million, compared to its international gross of $8.4 million. This highlights its strong appeal to North American audiences.
What was the production budget for the movie Little?
The production budget for Little was $20 million. This relatively modest budget contributed significantly to the film’s profitability.
Was Little considered a box office success?
Yes, Little is widely considered a box office success. Its worldwide gross of $49 million significantly exceeded its production budget of $20 million, indicating a healthy profit margin.
Who were the key players involved in the financial success of Little?
While a whole team contributed to its success, key players include the stars (Regina Hall, Issa Rae, and Marsai Martin), the director (Tina Gordon Chism), and the producers who managed the budget effectively. Universal Pictures’ marketing and distribution efforts were also crucial.
Did the success of Little impact Marsai Martin’s career?
Absolutely. Marsai Martin, who was just 14 years old at the time, not only starred in Little but also served as an executive producer, making her the youngest person to ever hold that title on a major Hollywood production. This accomplishment significantly elevated her profile and solidified her position as a rising star and businesswoman in the industry.
Were there any sequels or spin-offs planned for Little following its success?
As of the present, there are no officially announced sequels or spin-offs in development. However, given the film’s success and the potential for further exploration of the body-swap concept, future installments are certainly possible.
How did marketing and promotion contribute to Little‘s box office performance?
The marketing campaign for Little effectively targeted its core demographic, which included young women, families, and fans of the stars. Trailers emphasized the comedic elements and the body-swap premise, generating significant buzz on social media and through traditional advertising channels.
How did Little perform compared to other body-swap comedies?
Little performed competitively within the body-swap comedy genre. While it didn’t reach the heights of some of the genre’s biggest hits (like Freaky Friday), its relatively low budget allowed it to achieve profitability with a more modest gross.
Where can I stream or purchase Little currently?
Little is typically available to stream on various platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video, depending on current licensing agreements. It is also available for purchase on DVD, Blu-ray, and through digital retailers such as iTunes and Google Play. Availability may vary depending on your region.
What are some of the critical reviews of Little that might have influenced its box office draw?
While some critics found the plot predictable, many praised the performances of the cast, particularly Marsai Martin and Regina Hall. Reviews highlighting the film’s humor and positive representation likely contributed to its appeal with audiences.
Beyond box office revenue, what other forms of income did Little generate?
Beyond theatrical release, Little generated income through home video sales and rentals (DVD, Blu-ray) and digital distribution. These streams continue to contribute to the film’s overall revenue long after its theatrical run ends. Licensing and syndication deals for television broadcasting also provide a source of ongoing revenue.