Coraline’s 15th Anniversary Sparks a Fashion and Box Office Frenzy
Fifteen years after its debut, Coraline is not just a haunting memory; it’s making waves in both fashion and film. As fans old and new flock to theaters for the anniversary re-release, Converse and LAIKA Studios are teaming up to bring a touch of Coraline magic into the real world. This combination of cinematic success and stylish celebration proves that Coraline is far from just another animated classic.
A Fashion Statement That Walks Off the Screen
The anniversary of Coraline has inspired more than just a box office resurgence. Converse and LAIKA have joined forces to create a limited-edition collection that blends the eerie charm of the film with the iconic style of Converse. This isn’t just another piece of movie merchandise; it’s a wearable tribute to a film that has captured the imaginations of so many.
The collection, which includes both adult and kids’ footwear, as well as apparel, draws directly from the film’s most memorable moments. Characters, scenes, and patterns from Coraline have been meticulously reimagined to create a line that speaks to both fashion lovers and die-hard fans. It’s a celebration of the film’s lasting impact and a nod to the creativity that made Coraline an instant classic.
David Burke, LAIKA’s Chief Marketing & Operations Officer, expressed his excitement, saying, “We’re proud to yet again partner with Converse, this year in celebration of Coraline’s 15th anniversary and global re-release in cinemas. The Converse team’s creativity and collaborative spirit make them the perfect partner for LAIKA—and we’re confident this collection will thrill generations of Coraline and Converse fans alike.”
Starting today, attendees of the U.S. theatrical re-release of Coraline can pre-order the exclusive “Star Sweater” Chuck 70 by scanning a QR code on the big screen during the pre-show slides. But the full Converse x Coraline collection is set to drop in time for the holiday season, promising to be the must-have gift for fans who want to carry a piece of the Coraline world with them.
A Box Office Resurrection Worth Celebrating
While the fashion world buzzes with anticipation, Coraline has been busy breaking records at the box office. The 15th-anniversary re-release has pulled in a staggering $11.3 million over the weekend, pushing its cumulative domestic total past the $80 million mark. This milestone cements Coraline as the highest-grossing LAIKA film in the U.S., far surpassing its closest competitor, ParaNorman.
This success isn’t just impressive; it’s practically unheard of. Re-releases often struggle to compete with contemporary films, yet Coraline managed to land at No. 5 on the box office charts. It outperformed modern animated hits like Despicable Me 4 and Inside Out 2, and even edged out new live-action releases such as Trap and Borderlands. The fact that Coraline nearly matched its original 2009 opening weekend haul of $16.8 million is nothing short of remarkable.
A Timeless Tale Continues to Enchant
The resurgence of Coraline at the box office speaks to its enduring appeal. In a time when re-releases are becoming more common due to the pandemic and industry strikes, Coraline stands out. It outshone re-releases of blockbuster films like Avatar and Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace, proving that its creepy, captivating story still resonates deeply with audiences.
While it’s still unclear if this success will lead to a much-anticipated sequel, what’s certain is that Coraline remains a beloved and powerful presence in the world of animation. The fact that it achieved this level of success outside the Halloween season, when spooky films typically thrive, only underscores its lasting influence.
As Coraline continues to captivate audiences in theaters and now on their feet, this 15th-anniversary celebration is more than just a look back; it’s a testament to the timelessness of a story that keeps pulling us into its eerie world.
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