The Florida Project: Did it Make Mickey Mouse Money?
The Florida Project. A movie that warmed our hearts (well, some of them) and squeezed our tear ducts drier than a Florida orange in July. But how did this indie darling fare in the box office battlefield? Did it rake in enough cash to buy a lifetime supply of Dole Whips, or was it left scrabbling for change like Halley at the Magic Castle Inn vending machine?
Budgeting Like a Boss (Motel Manager, That Is)
The Florida Project was made for a measly $2 million. That's practically couch cushion coin change compared to the budgets of most Hollywood blockbusters. Think of it as a shoestring budget with a flip-flop kind of vibe.
Box Office: Boom or Bust?
So, how much moolah did this little movie make? It brought in a cool $11.3 million worldwide. Not exactly Avengers: Endgame numbers, but hey, that's over FIVE TIMES its budget! That's a pretty sweet return on investment, especially considering they probably used pool noodles for special effects.
Here's the Thing About Indie Films, Folks...
While $11.3 million might sound like a lot of pool floats and Mickey Mouse ice cream bars, it's important to remember that indie films don't play in a million theaters like the big guys. They often rely on film festivals, limited releases, and word-of-mouth to build a following.
So, The Florida Project: Box Office Success Story...Ish
The Florida Project might not have shattered any box office records, but for a small film, it did swimmingly (pun intended). It proves that a powerful story, brilliant acting (especially that six-year-old Moonee, wow!), and a unique perspective can resonate with audiences even without a seven-figure marketing budget.
Bonus: How to Florida Project on a Budget
Inspired by the film's spirit of making the most of what you have? Here are some quick tips:
- How to Build a Castle (Out of Cardboard): Channel your inner Moonee and get creative with recycled materials! Cardboard boxes become fortresses, blankets become cloaks, and pool noodles become...well, still pool noodles.
- How to Throw a Theme Park Party (Without Leaving Your Backyard): Forget the ticket prices! String up some lights, crank up the tunes, and let your imagination run wild. Bonus points for homemade churros.
- How to Make Movie Magic (Without a Million Bucks): Grab your phone, some friends, and start filming! You might be surprised by the stories you can create.