Los Angeles, California – The summer box office scene in Hollywood was brimming with excitement over the weekend as Disney and Pixar’s “Inside Out 2” made a monumental splash. The animated sequel raked in a whopping $155 million in ticket sales from over 4,400 theaters across the U.S. and Canada, setting records and delighting audiences worldwide.
This impressive opening marks the second-highest debut weekend for Pixar in its nearly three-decade history, following closely behind the launch of “Incredibles 2” in 2018. Not only did “Inside Out 2” dominate the box office, but it also claimed the title of the biggest opening of 2024, surpassing other major releases like “Barbie.” With an additional $140 million in international earnings, the film soared to a record-breaking $295 million globally.
Industry executives were pleasantly surprised by the film’s incredible success. Tony Chambers, Disney’s head of theatrical distribution, noted that the positive reviews and enthusiastic word-of-mouth contributed to the movie’s momentum, turning it into a must-see phenomenon for audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
The triumph of “Inside Out 2” holds significant importance for Pixar as it marks a remarkable comeback for the studio, especially after a series of lackluster releases. The success of this sequel not only revitalizes Pixar but also boosts the overall health of the film industry and theatrical exhibition, which has been struggling amidst the pandemic’s impact.
Directed by Kelsey Mann, “Inside Out 2” continues the story of Riley as she enters her teenage years, introducing new emotions and captivating audiences with its enchanting storyline. The film received glowing reviews from critics and audiences alike, signaling a promising longevity at the box office.
As the sole major release over the weekend, “Inside Out 2” showcased its theatrical prowess across various formats, reaffirming the allure of the big screen experience. The success of this film represents a turning point for 2024 and injects new life into a summer movie season that has been slowly regaining its footing after facing challenges.
The weekend also saw the continued success of other films like Sony’s “Bad Boys: Ride or Die,” which maintained strong momentum in its second weekend. The box office resurgence of these films underscores a positive trend for the industry, hinting at a brighter outlook as theaters welcome back eager moviegoers.
With the summer movie season in full swing, the success of “Inside Out 2” has set a high bar for upcoming releases and reignited enthusiasm for theatrical entertainment. As audiences flock to theaters and embrace the magic of cinema once more, the film industry looks towards a promising future filled with blockbuster hits and memorable movie experiences.