Disney Pulls Plug on Emma Mackey Comedy's French Debut
The entertainment giant has abruptly canceled the January release of its struggling political comedy starring Emma Mackey and Jamie Lee Curtis in France.
The House of Mouse finds itself in a peculiar position this year, celebrating massive success with one film while quietly burying another. While the studio basks in the glory of its animated sequel becoming 2025's top-earning Hollywood production, executives have made the decision to axe the French theatrical debut of their latest misfire.
A Tale of Two Fortunes
The contrast couldn't be starker for the entertainment conglomerate. On one hand, their animated animal metropolis sequel has shattered box office records, claiming the crown as this year's highest-grossing American film worldwide. The sequel's triumph has provided a much-needed financial cushion for the studio's other ventures.
However, not every project has enjoyed such fortune. The political comedy featuring the talented duo has become the studio's most significant commercial disappointment of 2025, struggling to find its audience despite the star power attached to the production.
French Release Gets the Axe
Rather than continue investing in what appears to be a lost cause, studio executives have chosen to cut their losses. The January 7th theatrical launch in France has been scrapped entirely, marking an unusual move for a major studio release featuring established Hollywood talent.
This decision reflects the harsh realities of modern film distribution, where studios must make tough choices about which markets justify continued investment. The comedy's poor performance in other territories likely influenced the choice to abandon the French rollout altogether.
Star Power Wasn't Enough
Despite featuring two accomplished performers known for their versatility and audience appeal, the political satire failed to resonate with moviegoers. The combination of established talent and topical subject matter seemed promising on paper, but execution and timing may have worked against the project's commercial prospects.
The cancellation serves as a reminder that even major studios with deep pockets aren't immune to making difficult decisions when faced with underperforming content. Rather than throwing good money after bad, the company has opted to minimize further financial exposure.