‘Skyfall’ becomes the biggest movie ever in the U.K.

After five decades of globe-trotting adventures, James Bond kept things close to home for his 23rd adventure, “Skyfall.” And residents of the United Kingdom have paid back the kindness in spades: This weekend the film celebrating Bond’s 50th anniversary became the highest-grossing movie ever in their native land.

After 40 days of release, “Skyfall” has earned £94.3 million (or $151.8 million) in Bond’s home territory, surpassing previous record holder, James Cameron’s “Avatar,” which grossed £94 (or $151.3 million) in 11 months.

In a statement released to the media, “Skyfall” producers Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli said, “We’re overwhelmed with gratitude to the cinema-going audiences in the U.K. who have made “Skyfall” the highest-grossing film of all time. We are very proud of this film and thank everybody, especially Daniel Craig and Sam Mendes, who have contributed to its success.”

While the opening of the film is set in Turkey, much of the action is set in London and rural Scotland, with the climax takes place at Bond’s childhood home.

“Skyfall” has also become the biggest Bond movie ever in the U.S., out-grossing the last Bond outing, “Quantum of Solace,” by more than $78 million so far. To date, the film has grossed $869.7 million worldwide, according to Box Office Mojo.

However, the eye-popping grosses should not be confused with actual attendance. According to a BBC report, the biggest movie ever in the U.K. in terms of actual tickets sold is still “Gone With the Wind” from 1939.

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