Zootopia 2 Breaks Records, But Upcoming Films Like Toy Story 5 and Frozen 3 Could Beat It

Disney’s Zootopia 2 has taken the box office by storm, currently sitting at a massive $1.7 billion worldwide. The sequel to 2016’s Zootopia is not just another hit; it has shattered records, securing its place in the top 10 highest-grossing movies of all time. It’s Disney’s biggest animated movie and the highest-grossing animated film from an American studio. Yet, despite this monumental achievement, the throne of animated film supremacy might not stay with Zootopia 2 for long.

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie: A Strong Challenger

Coming soon from Universal and Illumination, The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is a clear contender for the title. Following the success of The Super Mario Bros. Movie (which earned $1.36 billion in 2023), the studios are hoping the sequel will outperform its predecessor and surpass Zootopia 2’s $1.7 billion total. With the high popularity of Nintendo characters like Mario and Princess Peach, The Super Mario Galaxy Movie has all the ingredients for a box office smash, and a 25% increase from the previous film’s gross is a real possibility.

Toy Story 5: Can It Beat Zootopia 2?

Disney’s Toy Story 5 could also be in the running to dethrone Zootopia 2. The Toy Story franchise, which has earned a combined total of $3.2 billion, has proven its strength at the box office. The fourth installment, Toy Story 4, grossed $1.073 billion, but to beat Zootopia 2, the upcoming fifth film would need to pull in at least 60% more than any Toy Story movie has made before. With a loyal fanbase and potential for significant box office draw, Toy Story 5 has the potential to claim the record.

Frozen 3: Disney’s Best Shot at Beating Its Own Record

While Toy Story 5 might be a worthy opponent, Disney’s best chance at surpassing Zootopia 2 lies with Frozen 3. The first two Frozen films were worldwide phenomena, and Frozen 2 alone grossed $1.4 billion. To best Zootopia 2, Frozen 3 would only need a modest 17% increase in gross, which is within reach considering the massive popularity of Anna and Elsa. Set to release in 2027, Frozen 3 has the potential to top the box office charts once again and claim the crown as the highest-grossing animated movie.

Minions 3: A Potential Dark Horse

Minions 3 from Illumination could also be a surprise contender for the title. The Despicable Me and Minions films have been a reliable source of box office success, with Minions (2015) grossing $1.16 billion. The upcoming Minions 3 will need to surpass the franchise’s previous record by nearly 50% to outgross Zootopia 2, but with the right viral moments and strong support from younger generations, it could pull off the challenge.

Shrek 5: Could Nostalgia Propel It to Success?

Finally, DreamWorks’ Shrek 5 might be a long shot, but it’s not impossible. The Shrek franchise has had a lasting cultural impact, and with fans eagerly anticipating the return of Shrek, Fiona, and Donkey, the fifth installment could be a major success. While Shrek 5 would need to nearly double the franchise’s highest-grossing film, Shrek 2 ($935 million), nostalgia and the return of beloved characters could give it the boost it needs to challenge Zootopia 2’s record.

Will Zootopia 2 Hold the Crown?

Though Zootopia 2 has certainly made a significant mark on the box office, the competition is far from over. With The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, Toy Story 5, Frozen 3, Minions 3, and Shrek 5 all poised to make a splash, it’s possible that the crown of the highest-grossing animated film will change hands in the near future. However, with its massive success, Zootopia 2’s place in history is secured—at least for now.