‘Zootopia 2,’ ‘Wicked: For Good’ lead Thanksgiving box office
As the holiday season approaches, the box office is gearing up for a competitive Thanksgiving weekend with two highly anticipated releases: Disney’s “Zootopia 2” and Universal’s “Wicked: For Good.” Both films are expected to draw significant audiences, contributing to a robust holiday haul. “Zootopia 2,” the sequel to the beloved 2016 animated hit, promises to bring back fan-favorite characters while introducing new ones in a fresh storyline that explores themes of friendship and diversity. The original “Zootopia” was a massive success, grossing over $1 billion worldwide, and the sequel is anticipated to capitalize on its predecessor’s popularity.
On the other hand, “Wicked: For Good,” based on the hit Broadway musical, is poised to attract both theater enthusiasts and families looking for festive entertainment. The film adaptation has generated considerable buzz, especially with its star-studded cast and the musical’s devoted fan base. With the Thanksgiving weekend traditionally being a prime time for family outings to the movies, both films are expected to perform well, although industry experts predict they may not reach the heights of the record-breaking box office figures set in 2024. Last year saw an unprecedented surge in ticket sales, driven by a combination of blockbuster releases and a resurgence in cinema attendance post-pandemic.
While “Zootopia 2” and “Wicked: For Good” are set to deliver strong performances, they may fall short of the extraordinary benchmarks established in 2024, which saw films like “Avatar 3” and “Star Wars: Rogue Squadron” dominate the box office. Nevertheless, the combination of nostalgia, star power, and the holiday spirit is expected to ensure a successful weekend for both films, providing a much-needed boost for theaters during this festive period. As audiences flock to cinemas, the industry remains optimistic about the future, looking ahead to a year filled with exciting releases and the continued evolution of the cinematic experience.
Disney’s “Zootopia 2” and Universal’s “Wicked: For Good” are set for strong Thanksgiving box office haul, but not as big as 2024’s record-breaking tally.
