Rovio's first feature-length animated film, The Angry Birds Movie, has had a successful launch weekend in 74 markets, grossing an estimated $43 million and reaching the number 1 spot in 37 countries.

According to Rovio's blog, the top three markets were:

• Russia, where the film generated $5.7 million,
• the UK at $3 million, and
• Germany at $2.9 million.

The film has yet to be launched in the US, China, or Korea – its release date is May 20 2016 in these markets – so the film could still prove to be even more popular in these markets.

All the eggs in one basket

Rovio would certainly benefit from a huge release.

The Helsinki Times reported back in March 2015 that the company had invested over $113 million (€100 million) in the film.

And the company made an operating loss of $15 million in 2015, largely due to restructuring its merchandising business, as well as the various costs involved with making and marketing The Angry Birds Movie.