Zootopia 2 Already Shattering Box Office Records In China
The highly anticipated sequel, Zootopia 2, has already ignited the Chinese box office, shattering records before its official release and giving Walt Disney Animation Studios a major confidence boost as it eyes another billion-dollar global hit to end the year. The film’s unprecedented pre-sale numbers signal a massive success not just for Disney, but for Hollywood’s prospects in the vital Chinese market.
Even before its November 26th premiere, Zootopia 2 has demonstrated remarkable drawing power. The film has delivered the biggest pre-sales for any Hollywood title in China in the post-COVID era, signaling immense excitement from audiences.
Zootopia 2 Is Shattering Pre-Sale Records
The return of Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde has proven to be a monumental event for Chinese moviegoers. According to trade analyst Luiz Fernando, Zootopia 2 has already amassed an incredible $34.3 million in pre-sales. This figure not only shows a strong intent to see the film but also breaks previous records.
Notably, the sequel has surpassed the pre-sale numbers of F9: The Fast Saga, which previously held the post-pandemic record for a Hollywood film with $30.1 million. With over 223,000 screenings already available for booking during the pre-sale period—the highest ever for a non-Chinese film—the stage is set for a monumental opening weekend. The pre-sale total has already outpaced the actual opening day gross of major blockbusters like Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 and Deadpool & Wolverine, highlighting the unique connection Chinese audiences have with the Zootopia franchise.
A Crucial Win for Disney and Hollywood
The success of Zootopia 2 in China is more than just a win for a single film; it’s a potential turning point for Hollywood’s performance in the region. In recent years, the Chinese box office has been challenging for American films, with local productions often dominating. The biggest Hollywood release in China this year, Jurassic World Rebirth, earned a respectable but underwhelming $79 million.
Zootopia 2‘s incredible start suggests that the right combination of nostalgia, beloved characters, and family-friendly storytelling can still resonate deeply with Chinese audiences. As one industry executive noted, properties like Zootopia are “conducive to the Chinese marketplace,” and a strong performance is critical to gauging Hollywood’s current standing.
Final Thoughts
With such a powerful launch in one of the world’s largest movie markets, Disney is now well-positioned to see Zootopia 2 climb toward the coveted $1 billion mark globally. The film’s early triumph is a clear indicator that the magic of Zootopia is as strong as ever, providing a much-needed box office spark to close out 2025.
