In recent weeks, the global box office has witnessed significant milestones with the releases of James Cameron’s
'Avatar: Fire and Ash' and Disney's 'Zootopia 2'. 'Fire and Ash' has garnered an estimated $760.4 million worldwide,
with $542.7 million attributed to international markets. This notable performance marks it as the fifth highest-grossing
MPA release of 2025. Moreover, the film's success is amplified by its nearing the $100 million mark in China, a critical
market for Hollywood blockbusters.
On the other hand, 'Zootopia 2' has emerged as a powerhouse, crossing the $1 billion threshold internationally with a
spectacular total of $1,420.9 million globally. This makes it the top global release of 2025 and the highest-grossing
animated film in Hollywood history on an international scale. The film’s success not only reinforces Disney’s dominance
in the animation sector but also marks a significant moment in cinematic history, being only the third studio animated
release to achieve such heights.
The performance of both films highlights a growing trend in the entertainment industry where sequels and franchises
continue to draw large audiences, particularly in international markets. The relatively modest drop in earnings for both
films, with 'Fire and Ash' experiencing only a 25% dip, underscores their strong appeal and the effectiveness of
marketing strategies aimed at sustaining audience interest.
Further emphasizing the trend of animation's popularity, 'Zootopia 2' has set a benchmark as the first studio film of
2025 to surpass $1 billion internationally. Its performance is attributed to a combination of nostalgia and fresh
storytelling that resonates well with audiences. Additionally, the film’s ability to maintain momentum, evidenced by a
minor decline in box office earnings during its fifth weekend, indicates a strong word-of-mouth impact and repeat
The weekend also saw other notable releases, including Paramount's 'The SpongeBob Movie: Search for Squarepants', which
opened to $22.1 million internationally, and Universal’s 'Wicked: For Good', which crossed the $500 million mark
globally. These films, while not reaching the heights of 'Avatar' or 'Zootopia', contribute to a robust overall box
office performance this year.
In summary, the current state of the box office exemplifies the resilience of established franchises and the enduring
appeal of animated films. As the industry continues to evolve, understanding audience preferences and leveraging
international markets will remain crucial for studios aiming to replicate the success seen with 'Fire and Ash' and