What You Didn't Know About Animation Dominating the Box Office
The world of animation continues to captivate audiences of all ages, and nowhere is this more evident than at the box office. From heartwarming tales to action-packed adventures, animated films consistently rake in the big bucks during their opening weekends. With the new releases of Despicable Me 4 and Inside Out 2 dominating the box office, we look at the top 10 animated film debuts of all time, showcasing the power of these visually stunning and emotionally resonant stories.
1. The Lion King (2019): King of the Box Office
Taking the crown is the live-action remake of Disney's beloved classic, "The Lion King." While technically not traditionally animated, the film utilizes a groundbreaking blend of computer-generated imagery that breathes new life into the timeless story of Simba and his journey to become king. This visually stunning spectacle roared into theaters in 2019, bringing in a whopping $191.8 million during its opening weekend. Stream the Lion King on Apple TV
2. Superheroes Assemble: Incredibles 2 (2018)
Just behind "The Lion King" is the long-awaited sequel to Pixar's critically acclaimed "The Incredibles." Released in 2018, "Incredibles 2" saw the return of the Parr family, this time with Helen in the spotlight as she tackles a new villain while Bob stays home to manage the ever-elastic Jack-Jack. Superhero fans flocked to theaters, propelling the film to a mighty $182.9 million opening weekend. Stream Incredibles 2 on Apple TV
3. Joy Takes Over: Inside Out 2 Makes a Splash (2024)
Pixar strikes again with the recent release of "Inside Out 2." This highly anticipated sequel takes us back inside the mind of Riley, now a teenager navigating the emotional rollercoaster of adolescence. Debuting in 2024, the film captured audiences' hearts (and funny bones), scoring a stellar $154.2 million during its opening weekend.
4. Finding Nemo's Sequel Makes a Big Splash (2016)
Disney's "Finding Dory" reunited audiences with everyone's favorite forgetful fish, Dory, in 2016. This heartwarming sequel explored Dory's search for her long-lost family and resonated with viewers of all ages. Finding Nemo's sequel made a big splash at the box office, swimming to a $135 million opening weekend. Stream Finding Dory on Apple TV
5. Reaching for the Sky: Toy Story 4 Takes Flight (2019)
Pixar's "Toy Story 4" proved that sometimes, you can't go home again – but you can embark on a hilarious new adventure. Released in 2019, this emotional and thought-provoking sequel saw Woody and the gang face new challenges, resulting in a fantastic opening weekend gross of $121 million. Stream Toy Story 4 on Apple TV
6. Minions Take Over: Laughter is Contagious (2015)
These little yellow troublemakers stole the show (and the spotlight) in "Minions," the 2015 prequel to the Despicable Me franchise. The film explored the origins of the Minions and their hilarious quest to find the next supervillain to serve. Audiences couldn't resist their comedic antics, propelling the movie to a $115.7 million opening weekend. Stream Minions on Apple TV
7. Pets Rule the Roost: The Secret Life of Pets (2016)
Illumination Entertainment's "The Secret Life of Pets" took audiences on a delightful journey into the lives of our furry (and feathery) companions when we're not around. This heartwarming and humorous film offered a glimpse into the secret world of pets, resulting in a successful opening weekend haul of $104.3 million in 2016. Stream The Secret Life of Pets on Apple TV
8. Despicable Me Makes Us Laugh (2013)
The original "Despicable Me" film introduced the world to Gru, a villain with a heart of gold (well, maybe not gold, but something softer). This hilarious and heartwarming 2013 film, featuring Gru's adorable adopted daughters, launched a global phenomenon and secured a strong $83.5 million opening weekend. Stream Despicable Me on Apple TV
9. Gru's Minions Return (2024)
The latest Despicable Me installment, "Despicable Me 4," proves that Gru and his Minions are still a box office force. With a strategic midweek release to capitalize on the Fourth of July holiday, the 2024 film brought in a solid $75 million during its opening weekend.
10. More Minion Mayhem: Despicable Me 3 (2017)
Rounding out the list is "Despicable Me 3," released in 2017. This film saw Gru facing off against a new villain, his long-lost twin brother Dru. While Dru may have dreamt of following in Gru's villainous footsteps, their sibling rivalry and Gru's newfound dedication to fatherhood make for a hilarious and heartwarming adventure. "Despicable Me 3" may not have reached the same heights as its predecessors, but it still managed a respectable $72.4 million opening weekend, solidifying the franchise's place in animation history. Stream Despicable Me 3 on Apple TV
