French films experienced a remarkable year domestically, capturing an impressive 44% share of the French box office. This achievement marks a significant milestone, breaking a 15-year record. The success of local productions has been attributed to robust audience support and a rich lineup of culturally resonant films. Despite this domestic triumph, international revenues for Gallic cinema saw a modest decline, dropping by 11% compared to the previous year. According to data released by the National Film Board (CNC) and Unifrance during the Rendez-Vous in Paris market, the global performance of French films reflects broader trends in the international film industry.

The international appeal of French cinema was highlighted by several notable exports. Among these, "The Count of Monte-Cristo," a sweeping historical drama adapted from Alexandre Dumas' classic novel, emerged as the top-grossing French film abroad. Produced by Chapter 2 and distributed internationally by Pathé, the film earned an estimated €20.7 million from 3.3 million tickets across 54 territories. Starring Pierre Niney as the wronged sailor Edmond Dantès, the movie's success underscores the enduring popularity of epic narratives. Other standout performances included Justine Triet's critically acclaimed "Anatomy of a Fall" and Tran Anh Hung's "The Taste of Things," both of which garnered significant attention at prestigious festivals like Cannes.

The dip in international admissions for French films can be partly attributed to the absence of family-friendly blockbusters such as "Miraculous: The Movie," which had sold 7.5 million tickets overseas in 2023. Additionally, the global box office faced challenges due to post-pandemic recovery and the impact of Hollywood strikes, which disrupted the release schedules of major titles. However, this also created opportunities for other film industries to gain more visibility. Looking ahead, French cinema is poised to continue its strong presence on the international stage, with anticipated success for films like "Emilia Perez" and "The Substance" in the upcoming awards season. The resilience and creativity of French filmmakers remain a testament to the enduring strength of their cinematic tradition.