Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga has broken records by debuting as the first overseas feature to top the Japanese box office in 2024, surpassing the opening of Mad Max: Fury Road from 2015. Despite mixed results elsewhere, the film had a standout launch in Japan, earning $2.05 million over its three-day opening weekend and attracting 199,163 admissions from May 31 to June 2.
This performance exceeded Mad Max: Fury Road‘s Japanese debut figures, which earned $1.7 million (¥265m) from 175,579 admissions in its first weekend back in June 2015.
Anya Taylor-Joy Shines as Furiosa
Anya Taylor-Joy, known for her compelling performances, brings a younger version of the fierce Imperator Furiosa to life in this movie. She garnered attention for a memorable yet cut scene involving her preserving a prop related to Chris Hemsworth’s character. In an interview, she shared: I have my [prosthetic Furiosa] arm…but the prop department gave it to me to take home, and that is Chris [Hemsworth’s] tongue…
George Miller’s Unique Direction
The film sees the return of George Miller at the helm, promising fans the same gritty and exhilarating storytelling that made Mad Max: Fury Road such a phenomenon. Reflecting on past dynamics on set, Miller noted: They were just two very different performers; Tom has damage but also brilliance; Charlize was incredibly disciplined…
The Response in Japan
The enthusiastic response from Japanese audiences has been crucial to the film’s successful opening. Screenings saw widespread cheer and applause, a promising sign for its run in other markets. The studio has capitalized on this with planned events like a “cheer screening”, where viewers are encouraged to stand, cheer, and quote dialogue.
Cultural Impact on Creatives
A notable aspect of Furiosa’s success is its inspiration within creative circles. Renowned figures like video game creator Hideo Kojima and manga artist Tetsuo Hara have both cited George Miller’s Mad Max series as significant influences on their works like Metal Gear Solid and Fist of the North Star respectively. Kojima himself has shown interest in adapting Mad Max into a video game although he would not propose such due to his commitments.
Mysterious Teddy Bear Prop
One interesting detail is Chris Hemsworth’s character carrying around a teddy bear. This peculiar addition ties back to the early concept sketches by Japanese animator Mahiro Maeda when Furiosa was nearly made into an anime.
A Counter-Trend Success Story
The initial success of Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga defies current trends in Japan where local productions typically dominate, such as recent hits from franchises like ‘Spy x Family’ and ‘Detective Conan’. This achievement underscores the film’s cross-cultural appeal and the resonance of George Miller’s storied franchise.
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