Photo Credit: Disney/Pixar
Disney and Pixar’s “Inside Out 2” has emerged as a cinematic juggernaut, shattering box office records and captivating audiences worldwide. As of Sunday, the film has grossed an impressive $724.4 million globally, positioning it as the highest-grossing film of 2024 and on track to surpass the coveted $1 billion mark.
Released in mid-June, “Inside Out 2” had a phenomenal domestic opening, raking in $155 million over its first weekend. This impressive debut not only outperformed “Dune: Part Two” but also marked the biggest opening for an animated film since “Frozen 2”. Internationally, the film added another $140 million, bringing its total to $295 million in just three days.
The success of "Inside Out 2” is a testament to its broad appeal, resonating with both young audiences and adults alike. The film continues the story of Riley, now a teenager, navigating new emotions such as Anxiety, voiced by Maya Hawke. This narrative, combined with the return of beloved characters Joy (Amy Poehler) and Sadness (Phyllis Smith), has struck a chord with viewers.
Box office experts attribute the film’s success to several factors: its universal theme, the strong legacy of the original film, and a strategic release during a period with limited family-friendly competition. Additionally, the film’s consumer-friendly runtime and the draw of air-conditioned theaters during summer heat waves have boosted ticket sales.
“Inside Out 2” is not just a box office hit; it’s also a critical darling. It boasts a 96% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes and an “A” grade from CinemaScore, reflecting its positive reception among moviegoers. This widespread acclaim and robust ticket sales suggest that “Inside Out 2” will likely maintain its momentum, potentially becoming the first film of 2024 to join the billion-dollar club.
In conclusion, “Inside Out 2” stands as a beacon of success for Disney and Pixar, revitalizing their box office dominance post-pandemic. Its combination of heartfelt storytelling, beloved characters, and strategic release timing has created a perfect storm, ensuring its place as one of the year’s top films.
