‘Zootopia 2,’ ‘Wicked: For Good’ lead Thanksgiving box office
As the holiday season approaches, the box office is gearing up for a competitive showdown, particularly with Disney’s highly anticipated sequel, “Zootopia 2,” and Universal’s ambitious film adaptation of the beloved musical, “Wicked: For Good.” Scheduled for release during the Thanksgiving weekend, both films are expected to draw significant audiences, showcasing a blend of family-friendly animation and theatrical storytelling that resonates with a wide demographic. While projections indicate a robust performance, analysts suggest that the Thanksgiving haul may not reach the unprecedented heights set by the record-breaking box office of 2024, which saw major films shattering previous revenue benchmarks.
“Zootopia 2,” the sequel to the 2016 Oscar-winning animated feature, promises to reunite fans with the vibrant city of Zootopia and its charming characters, including the dynamic duo of Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde. The original film was not only a critical success but also a commercial powerhouse, grossing over $1 billion worldwide. Disney aims to capitalize on this success by delivering a storyline that continues to explore themes of diversity, acceptance, and adventure, appealing to both returning fans and new audiences. Meanwhile, “Wicked: For Good,” which brings the iconic Broadway musical to the big screen, is poised to attract theater enthusiasts and families alike. The film features an impressive cast, including Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, and is expected to resonate with audiences through its powerful narrative and unforgettable music.
Despite the excitement surrounding these releases, industry experts caution that the Thanksgiving weekend box office may fall short of the record-breaking figures achieved in 2024, when blockbuster hits dominated the landscape. Factors influencing this prediction include increased competition from other holiday releases, changing viewing habits, and the ongoing impact of streaming services on traditional cinema attendance. Nevertheless, both “Zootopia 2” and “Wicked: For Good” are anticipated to perform strongly, contributing to a vibrant holiday box office season and providing families with entertaining options during this festive time of year. As audiences prepare for the cinematic offerings, the excitement builds for what promises to be a memorable Thanksgiving at the movies.
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.
