'Wonka' ends 2023 by topping box office

In 2023, Hollywood closed with "Wonka" at the top of the box office, but overall ticket sales fell short of pre-pandemic levels. "Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom" struggled, while a wide array of films vied for success in the lucrative box-office corridor. Meanwhile, "The Color Purple" had a strong debut and is expected to perform well during awards season. Despite a lack of blockbusters, the industry surpassed $9 billion in box office for the year. However, production delays caused by strikes may impact 2024 releases.