Disney’s Animated Sequel Soars: “Zootopia 2” Scores Big at the Box Office
Zootopia 2 Hits the Big Screen — and Hits Hard
The beloved animated world of Walt Disney Animation Studios returns with “Zootopia 2,” which has delivered a powerful opening performance. On Black Friday, the film brought in $38.5 million — the second-highest for any movie on that day. It also earned $19.7 million on Thanksgiving itself. The Daily Beast
Combined with its initial Wednesday release — where it reportedly made about $39.5 million — these numbers set “Zootopia 2” on track for a five-day total near $158 million. The Daily Beast+1
Strong Reviews Match the Box-Office Buzz
“Zootopia 2” isn’t just winning with audiences — critics are also on board. The film holds a 91% “Certified Fresh” rating on Rotten Tomatoes, alongside a 96% audience approval score. The Daily Beast
This positive reception reflects the film’s success in blending charm, humor, and emotional depth, while expanding the vibrant, animal-filled universe that fans loved in the original. Wikipedia+1
Why It’s Resonating — What’s Working
- Nostalgia + Growth: Nearly a decade after the original, “Zootopia 2” taps into audience fondness for familiar characters, while adding new layers — fresh storylines, expanded worldbuilding, and new voices (including a reptile character) that broaden the animal metropolis. The Daily Beast+2GamesRadar++2
- Holiday Timing & Momentum: The film’s release tapped perfectly into the Thanksgiving–Black Friday period, boosting ticket sales and giving families a timely cinema option.
- Balanced Appeal: With broad family-friendly storytelling, comedic moments, and emotional beats, the sequel appeals to both children and adults — a combination that often drives box-office success.
What’s Next — Can It Keep the Momentum?
With a strong five-day debut and glowing reviews, “Zootopia 2” is off to a promising start. But its long-term success will depend on sustained interest beyond the holiday rush — especially weekday attendance, international box office performance, and word-of-mouth. If it maintains its current trajectory, it could easily become one of Disney’s biggest animated hits in recent years.
