Disney's animated sequel Zootropolis 2 has delivered a staggering performance at the global box office, raking in a monumental £420 million ($556m) during its opening weekend. The film, which hit UK cinemas on 28 November 2025, has not only dominated charts but also broken a slew of industry records.
A Record-Breaking Animated Debut
The follow-up to the 2016 Oscar-winning hit Zootropolis (known as Zootopia in the US) has taken the world by storm. In its first three days, it earned $156m (£117.7m) in North America and a colossal $400m (£301.9m) from international markets. This phenomenal start has secured its place as the fourth-biggest worldwide debut of all time, trailing only cinematic giants like Avengers: Endgame.
Critically, the film has cemented its legacy by becoming the largest global launch ever for an animated film and the highest global debut of 2025. It also marks the biggest opening in the storied history of Walt Disney Animation Studios.
The China Factor and Critical Acclaim
A significant driver of this runaway success is the crucial Chinese market. Zootropolis 2 has become a sensation there, achieving the sixth-highest opening of all time in China and the second-best for a non-local film, only behind Avengers: Endgame. It now holds the title for the highest animated opening ever in China for an international title.
The film's quality is underscored by glowing reviews. It currently boasts a 91% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics praising its clever storytelling and the enduring charm of its lead duo. The audience-driven Popcornmeter score is even higher at 95%. Publications like The Independent suggest the sequel "arguably improves on its predecessor," while The Daily Telegraph hailed it as proof that Disney "can still do this stuff as well as anyone."
Returning Favourites and New Faces
The sequel reunites audiences with rookie police officer rabbit Judy Hopps (Ginnifer Goodwin) and con-artist fox Nick Wilde (Jason Bateman). This time, the pair are framed for a crime and forced to go on the run, aided and antagonised by a mysterious new reptilian resident, Gary De’Snake, voiced by Ke Huy Quan.
The voice cast sees the return of favourites like Idris Elba, Shakira, and Jenny Slate, joined by newcomers including Andy Samberg, Quinta Brunson, and Danny Trejo. The film's dual-title tradition continues, being known as Zootopia in the US and Zootropolis in the UK, a distinction originally made to give UK audiences a unique name for the movie.
Reflecting on the film's monumental achievement, Disney Entertainment co-chairman Alan Bergman stated: "The incredible response to Zootopia 2 reflects both its worldwide appeal and the remarkable work of our filmmakers and cast. It’s a proud moment for Disney Animation."
Zootropolis 2 is now showing in cinemas across the United Kingdom.
