Sony grosses $1.6B internationally in '09

CULVER CITY, Calif., Nov. 16 (UPI) -- Sony Pictures Releasing International has passed $1.6 billion at the international box office, making 2009 its highest grossing year, Sony said Monday.

The announcement was made by Jeff Blake, chairman of Sony Pictures Worldwide Marketing and Distribution, who said the year has been driven by the success of a number of breakthrough hits in the international marketplace, including "2012," "This is It" and "Angels & Demons."

"2012" opened this past weekend to more than $165 million internationally and $230.4 million worldwide. It has yet to open in such markets as Japan, where it is expected to perform solidly, Sony said.

"Our performance this year re-emphasizes the importance of the international marketplace and the enormous value of a release slate with global appeal," Blake said in a statement. "We couldn't be more proud of the films we have been privileged to work on this year and our extraordinary success reflects the achievements of our dedicated filmmakers as well as the creativity and innovation of our hardworking marketing and distribution teams all over the world."

In North America, Sony Pictures has released eight No. 1 movies so far in 2009 and has grossed $1.3 billion in ticket sales.