The long-awaited sequel to Disney's beloved animal metropolis adventure, Zootopia 2, has achieved a monumental milestone in global cinema. The film has officially become the highest-grossing foreign animated film of all time in China, a key market for Hollywood blockbusters.
A Record-Breaking Run at the Chinese Box Office
According to data from the Chinese ticketing platform Maoyan, Zootopia 2 has generated a staggering over $600 million (approximately 4.35 billion yuan) in ticket sales within mainland China since its release. This colossal figure has propelled it past the previous record holder, Disney's own Frozen II, which had held the title since 2019.
The film's performance is particularly notable given the current dynamics of the Chinese film market and the evolving relationship between Hollywood and Chinese audiences. Its success underscores the enduring popularity of the original 2016 film, known as Zootropolis in the UK, and its characters, Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde.
Surpassing Giants and Setting a New Benchmark
To contextualise this achievement, the sequel has not only dethroned Frozen II but has also left other animated titans in its wake. It has soared past the Chinese earnings of major films like Despicable Me 3 and the first Zootopia/Zootropolis. Industry analysts point to a potent mix of factors driving this success.
Strong brand loyalty from the original film, which was a major hit in China, created a solid foundation. Furthermore, the sequel's themes of inclusivity and perseverance, wrapped in a visually spectacular and humorous package, have resonated deeply with family audiences. The strategic release timing, avoiding clashes with major local productions, also provided a clear runway for its box office ascent.
What This Means for Hollywood in China
The triumph of Zootopia 2 sends a clear signal to Hollywood studios. It demonstrates that there is still a massive appetite for high-quality, character-driven animated features in China, even as local productions grow in strength and sophistication. However, the victory is not just about animation; it highlights the critical importance of cultural resonance and genuine storytelling that connects with audiences on a universal level.
This record-breaking performance will likely be studied closely by film executives. It proves that franchises with established goodwill can achieve extraordinary results, but it also raises the bar for future entries. The pressure will now be on for other major studios to deliver content that can captivate the Chinese market with similar effectiveness.
As Zootopia 2 continues its theatrical run, its place in the annals of box office history is already secured. It stands as a testament to the power of a well-crafted sequel and the unwavering appeal of a world where anyone can be anything. The film's journey in China is a landmark event, reshaping the landscape for foreign animation and setting a new gold standard for success.
