The global entertainment market reached $96.8 billion in 2018 – a nine percent increase over 2017 – according to new, combined theatrical and home entertainment data released by the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA). The 2018 global box office grew to $41.1 billion, while global home entertainment increased by 16 percent over 2017 levels to reach $55.7 billion.
The 2018 THEME Report, a comprehensive analysis and survey of the theatrical and home entertainment market environment (THEME), provides in-depth analysis of the state of the industry and an audience demographic survey. This year’s expanded study includes new reporting on global 3D box office estimates, data on the volume of original series production for television and online video services, and detailed demographic data for home entertainment viewing in the United States.
“In today’s dynamic marketplace, stories come to life for audiences in theaters, at home, and on the go,” said Charles Rivkin, Chairman and CEO of the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA). “Our companies continue to deliver content where, when, and how audiences want it – and the numbers released today speak volumes.”
The U.S./Canada box office increased by seven percent to $11.9 billion, a record high. Three-quarters (75%) of the U.S./Canada population, or 263 million people, went to the cinema at least once in 2018. The gender composition of the cinema audience was 51 percent female and 49 percent male.
On the global level, seven markets outside the U.S./Canada saw box office totals of $1 billion or more. The Asia Pacific box office totaled $16.7 billion, an increase of five percent compared to 2017. China was the primary growth driver, with a 12 percent increase in box office.
