Pixar’s journey through the pandemic era box office has been a rollercoaster ride of emotions. Initially, there was apprehension as films like Soul, Luca, and Turning Red premiered exclusively on Disney+ during lockdowns.
Then came the cautious optimism with Lightyear’s modest $226 million global earnings in 2022. Finally, there was elation with Elemental’s impressive $500 million worldwide take last year. Now, Pixar has once again emerged as the envy of the industry with the record-breaking success of Inside Out 2, marking a triumphant return to theaters.
Directed by Kelsey Mann and following up on Pete Docter’s beloved 2016 original, Inside Out 2 shattered expectations at the box office. According to Box Office Mojo, the film raked in a stunning $155 million domestically and soared to a staggering $295 million globally during its opening weekend.
This achievement not only secures Inside Out 2 as the second-highest animated debut ever in the US (just behind Incredibles 2), but also sets a new record for the biggest animated opening weekend worldwide—surpassing even The Super Mario Bros. Movie.
Despite lukewarm performances from other summer blockbusters like Furiosa and The Fall Guy, Pixar’s latest success signals a pivotal moment. It’s the first film since Barbie last year to cross the $100 million mark in its opening weekend, signaling a resurgence for the studio. Amy Poehler, the voice of Joy, expressed her enthusiasm for more Riley-related sequels, akin to the Up series, in an interview with Empire.
With Inside Out 2’s soaring box office performance and glowing reviews, the prospect of future installments like Insid3 Out seems more promising than ever. Pixar continues to thrill audiences and break records—truly, watch this (head)space!