Walt Disney Co.’s “Zootopia 2” is now the highest-grossing U.S. animated film of all time, the company said Sunday. The animated sequel has captivated audiences worldwide, earning a staggering $1.7 billion in global box office revenue as of Sunday.
A Sequel That Leapt to the Top
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“Zootopia 2” surpassed the previous record holder, “Inside Out 2,” which grossed $1.69 billion.
What factors contributed to “Zootopia 2’s” success? The film’s international appeal, notably in china, played a meaningful role, alongside the established fanbase from the original 2016 film.
Disney Entertainment Co-Chairman Alan Bergman celebrated the milestone in a statement Sunday, emphasizing the role of fans. “This milestone belongs first and foremost to the fans around the world whose enthusiasm made it possible,” he said.
Global Appeal Drives Record-Breaking Numbers
The bulk of “Zootopia 2’s” earnings have come from international markets, totaling $1.31 billion. Domestically, in the U.S. and Canada, the film has generated $390 million.
China proved to be the film’s largest international market,contributing a remarkable $610 million to the box office total thus far.
The original “Zootopia” was a surprise hit in China, resonating with audiences who connected with the storyline of rabbit cop Judy Hopps’ journey from a rural village to the bustling city, as well as the unique dynamic between Judy and her partner, Nick Wilde, a fox, Disney executives have said.
Capitalizing on this popularity, Disney opened a “Zootopia”-themed land in Shanghai Disneyland-the only such themed area in any Disney park globally.
However, a positive reception in China wasn’t guaranteed. A decade ago, Hollywood blockbusters gaining government approval could reliably count on the Chinese market to considerably boost their international box office numbers.
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, coupled with increasing geopolitical tensions between the U.S. and China and the growth of the local film industry, securing that kind of reception has become considerably more unpredictable.
The last Disney film released in China to earn over $100 million was 2024’s “Alien: Romulus.”
Did you know? Shanghai Disneyland is the only Disney park worldwide with a “Zootopia”-themed land, reflecting the original film’s strong popularity in China.
Pro tip China’s box office is crucial for Hollywood films, but recent geopolitical factors and a growing domestic film industry make success less certain.
Reader question Why did “Zootopia” resonate with Chinese audiences? Its themes of rural-to-urban migration and unlikely partnerships proved relatable.
- “Zootopia 2” has become the highest-grossing U.S. animated film of all time, with $1.7 billion worldwide.
- International markets, particularly China, were crucial to the film’s success.
- The original “Zootopia” resonated with Chinese audiences due to its relatable themes.
- The Chinese film market has become more unpredictable for Hollywood blockbusters in recent years.
