Inside Out 2 breaks the billion-dollar barrier: A milestone for animation
Inside Out 2 has achieved a remarkable feat, surpassing the $1 billion mark at the international box office. This accomplishment places it among an elite group of only 12 films to ever reach this milestone solely from overseas markets. Notably, it is the first animated film to do so, setting a new benchmark in the industry.
A global phenomenon
While 55 films have grossed $1 billion globally, combining domestic and international ticket sales, only a dozen have managed to hit that benchmark from overseas markets alone. Among these, 11 were live-action films. Disney’s 2019 remake of The Lion King earned $1.1 billion internationally but was categorized as live-action rather than computer-generated. Thus, Inside Out 2 stands as the first animated release to join this exclusive club.
Top foreign markets
The film’s success is a testament to its universal appeal, resonating with audiences worldwide. The top foreign markets contributing to its success include:
- Mexico: $102.2 million
- Brazil: $80 million
- United Kingdom: $72.7 million
- France: $62.6 million
- Korea: $60.8 million
These figures highlight the film’s widespread popularity and its ability to connect with diverse cultures and demographics.
A record-breaking year for Disney
Disney’s Pixar sequel is already the highest-grossing movie of the year, with a staggering $1.649 billion globally. This includes $1.002 billion from international markets and $646.3 million domestically. Weeks ago, Inside Out 2 overtook Frozen II as the highest-grossing animated film in history.
A summer of successes
Disney has enjoyed a strong summer with two billion-dollar releases. The other major hit is the Marvel superhero sequel Deadpool & Wolverine. To put things in perspective, Deadpool & Wolverine has generated $634.1 million internationally, which is impressive but still less than half of what Inside Out 2 has achieved. It’s worth noting that Deadpool & Wolverine is rated R, theoretically limiting its audience to those 18 and older.
With $1.21 billion worldwide to date, Deadpool & Wolverine now stands as the eighth-biggest installment in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. It has surpassed Captain America: Civil War ($1.155 billion) and is expected to soon overtake Iron Man 3 ($1.215 billion) to claim the No. 7 spot.
Other notable releases
Another Disney tentpole, Alien: Romulus, added $41.6 million internationally and $57.8 million globally over the weekend, boosting its worldwide haul to $225.4 million. The newest chapter in the decades-old sci-fi horror saga has been one of the rare post-pandemic Hollywood movies to resonate in China, where grosses have reached $73.3 million so far.
A mixed bag at the box office
Not all new releases have fared as well. Zoe Kravitz’s psychological thriller Blink Twice bombed with $6.7 million from 73 overseas territories. It also underwhelmed domestically with $7.2 million, bringing its global start to $14 million. Blink Twice, which marks Kravitz’s directorial debut, reportedly carries a $20 million budget before reshoots. So, it’s somewhat decently positioned in its theatrical run. Channing Tatum, Kravitz’s fiancé, stars in the film as a tech billionaire who invites a cocktail waitress (Naomi Ackie) to his private island for a luxurious party where things begin to take a sinister turn. Amazon MGM is distributing the movie in the U.S. while Warner Bros. is handling the theatrical rollout in the rest of the world.
Personal reflections for cinema enthusiasts
For those who cherish the magic of cinema, Inside Out 2‘s success is a reminder of the power of storytelling and animation. The film’s ability to connect with audiences across the globe underscores the universal themes it explores. Whether it’s the vibrant emotions of the characters or the intricate plot that keeps viewers engaged, Inside Out 2 has set a new standard for animated films.
In-depth analysis
The film’s achievement also prompts a deeper analysis of what makes an animated film resonate on such a large scale. Is it the relatability of the characters, the innovative animation techniques, or the compelling narrative? Perhaps it’s a combination of all these elements, meticulously crafted to create a cinematic experience that transcends cultural and linguistic barriers.
For those interested in exploring more about these films, you can watch the trailers and get additional information through the following links:
These links provide immediate access to trailers and further details, enriching your understanding and appreciation of these cinematic works.
In the ever-evolving landscape of cinema, Inside Out 2‘s milestone is a beacon of what’s possible when creativity, technology, and storytelling converge. It sets a high bar for future animated films and leaves us eagerly anticipating what the world of animation will bring next.