Olivia Wilde's 'The Invite' nears $40m worldwide as summer comedy becomes surprise box office hit

'The Invite' stars Olivia Wilde, Seth Rogen, Penelope Cruz and Edward Norton

Olivia Wilde's The Invite is proving to be one of the summer's biggest success stories, with the adult comedy approaching $40 million at the global box office and emerging as a rare theatrical hit for the genre.

The A24 release has grossed $20.3 million in North America and $19.4 million internationally, bringing its worldwide total to $39.7 million. The film continues to attract audiences despite competing against major blockbuster releases, highlighting strong word-of-mouth and sustained interest.

Directed by Wilde from a screenplay by Rashida Jones and Will McCormack, The Invite stars Seth Rogen and Wilde as a married couple whose relationship is tested after their charismatic neighbours, played by Penélope Cruz and Edward Norton, invite them into an unconventional arrangement. The comedy premiered at the Sundance Film Festival earlier this year, where it sparked a bidding war before A24 acquired its North American distribution rights.

The film has become a standout performer at a time when original adult comedies rarely find box office success, particularly during the crowded summer movie season. Its strong performance has been driven by enthusiastic reviews and positive audience reactions, with industry analysts pointing to it as evidence that well-reviewed, star-driven comedies can still thrive in cinemas.

The success of The Invite marks another milestone for A24, which has continued to establish itself as a major player in theatrical releases by backing filmmaker-driven projects that resonate with audiences beyond the traditional blockbuster landscape.