Zootopia 2 Sets New Records in Global Box Office

Walt Disney Co. announced that "Zootopia 2" has become the highest-grossing Hollywood film ever released in China, surpassing the previous record held by "Avengers: Endgame." The animated sequel grossed approximately 4.25 billion yuan (around $610 million) since its release on November 26, 2025. This milestone highlights the film's significant cultural impact, as fans have engaged with the franchise by purchasing Zootopia-themed merchandise and attending screenings with pets. The film reclaimed the top spot at the Chinese box office over the first weekend of 2026, dethroning Disney’s "Avatar: Fire and Ash."

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"Zootopia 2" has also achieved remarkable success on a global scale, grossing approximately $1.46 billion, making it the highest-grossing film in Walt Disney Animation history. The film surpassed "Frozen 2," which previously held the record with $1.45 billion. Domestically, "Zootopia 2" earned $333 million, while its international box office total reached $1.13 billion. The film hit the $1 billion milestone in just 17 days, making it the fastest PG-rated movie to achieve this feat.

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The film's success in China can be attributed to its effective localization and strong storytelling. Zhang Peng, a cultural researcher at Nanjing Normal University, noted that the franchise's enduring appeal lies in its combination of strong intellectual property and precise localization. He emphasized that the film's narrative aligns with Chinese audiences' growing preference for story-driven content, highlighting the importance of integrating local culture for widespread acceptance.

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Ahead of the sequel's release, Shanghai Disney Resort launched a major promotional campaign, capitalizing on the franchise's popularity in China. The film's director, Jared Bush, stated that the timing of the release was intentional, coinciding with the Year of the Snake. The end-credit song for the Chinese dubbed version, performed by Taiwan-based rock band Mayday, further enhanced its appeal. The film achieved a record single-day gross of 738 million yuan on November 29, 2025, marking the highest ever for an imported film in China.

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Despite its success, some critics argue that the film's reliance on established franchises may overshadow original storytelling in the animation industry. Concerns have been raised about the long-term sustainability of such blockbuster-driven strategies, especially as the global box office continues to trail pre-pandemic levels.

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• “The core advantage of Zootopia 2 lies in its franchise momentum combined with precise localization,” — Zhang Peng, Cultural Researcher

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• “Watching it was like joining a carnival," she told the Global Times.” — Lin Xiao, Beijing Resident

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"Zootopia 2" has not only set new records but also reshaped the landscape of animated films in China and globally, demonstrating the power of effective localization and audience engagement.

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