A new report tracks how animation films have bounced back post-pandemic, while European productions continue to face challenges in global reach and market share

The European Audiovisual Observatory (EAO) has published a new study titled “Theatrical Animation Films – Insights into Market Dynamics 2017–2024”, offering a detailed overview of the production, distribution and performance of animated films over the past eight years, with a special focus on Europe. Authored by Nicolas Edmery, analyst at the Observatory’s Department for Market Information, the report provides insights into the key trends shaping the animation landscape, including comparisons with live-action fiction, the impact of co-productions, and the evolving market reach of European titles.

Based on data from 49 global markets, the study shows that theatrical admissions for animation films have fully recovered from the pandemic, reaching over 880 million in 2024 — matching the average of the three pre-pandemic years. This rebound, however, did not extend to European animation, which sold an average of 33 million tickets per year between 2022 and 2024, compared to 42 million annually before the pandemic.

European animation accounted for about 25% of global production and 36% of commercial releases, yet its share of admissions was only 5%, highlighting the persistent challenge of turning availability into audience reach. Meanwhile, US animation, with just 10% of global production, captured over 70% of total admissions, underlining its dominant position in the international market.

A key takeaway from the study is the importance of co-productions and international circulation for animation films. Between 2017 and 2024, 42% of European animation titles were international co-productions, significantly higher than the 27% recorded for live-action films. These titles also travelled more widely: European animated features were released on average in eleven markets, compared to just four for live-action fiction. Approximately 67% of their admissions stemmed from export markets, confirming their stronger international appeal.

In terms of box office performance, animation films consistently outperformed live-action fiction. Between 2022 and 2024, average admissions per European animated film were 38% higher than those of their live-action counterparts. The study also notes a stronger recovery rate for animation: 80% compared to 54% for live-action fiction.

Despite these positive indicators, European animation still faces a tough competitive environment. In 2024, 84% of all admissions to animated films in Europe went to US productions, while European titles secured only 11%, a considerably lower share than in the live-action sector, where European films typically command double that figure.

The report also highlights budgetary differences, with European animation films displaying significantly higher average budgets than live-action features: €5.9 million versus €3.6 million respectively. Moreover, budgets in animation appear to be more evenly distributed, reflecting a more standardised approach to production.

Finally, the study underscores the animation sector’s resilience and its strategic advantages in international circulation. However, it also points to the need for further support to strengthen the visibility and competitiveness of European animated films in global markets.

You can download the full report here.