In the world of cinema, sequels often face the daunting challenge of living up to their predecessors. Yet, Pixar's "Inside Out 2" has not only met expectations, but also broke records and captured many hearts.
Pixar will expand the "Inside Out" universe further in a spin-off series heading to Disney Plus. (Photo : Pixar)
'Inside Out 2' Surpassing $100 Million Mark
According to studio estimates Sunday, Pixar's "Inside Out 2" has reached new heights in its second weekend, earning an impressive $100 million despite challenging weather, such as heat waves and heavy rain.
Although the film's success is highlighted by a notable 35% decrease from its $154 million opening weekend, it still set a new record for the best second-weekend performance in animated movie history.
Surpassing previous achievements of "Super Mario Bros Movie" and "Barbie", "Inside Out 2" now stands as the 7th highest-grossing second weekend ever, alongside hits like "Force Awakens," "Avengers: Endgame," and "Black Panther."
Disney anticipated "Inside Out 2" to reach a $100 million second weekend, despite extreme temperatures across the country. From Louisiana's sweltering humidity hitting New York City to scorching 90-degree weather in Los Angeles, many reportedly seek refuge in cool, air-conditioned movie theaters.
However, if today sees a 25% decline from Saturday's $38.5 million, "Inside Out 2" will likely settle around $98 million, maintaining its record for the best second weekend in animated movie history since "Barbie."
In its first two weekends in theaters, "Inside Out 2" has surged ahead as the year's top-grossing film. Disney and Pixar's sequel has amassed $355 million in North America and $724 million worldwide, surpassing the previous record holder, "Dune: Part Two" ($282 million domestically and $711 million globally).
At its current pace, it is poised to become the first film of 2024 to reach the $1 billion mark globally. With a production budget of $200 million, the movie is improving Pixar's box office success.
Both critics and audiences have loved the sequel, leading to positive word-of-mouth and increased ticket sales. The film has done exceptionally well in Imax theaters, earning $32.2 million worldwide so far, and becoming the fourth-highest-grossing animated movie ever in Imax.
Pixar's chief creative officer, Pete Docter, announced that this new series will debut on Disney Plus in early 2025. The spin-off will continue the beloved narrative, delving deeper into the emotional world introduced in the films and exploring new aspects of the characters' lives.
The series aims to deliver the same charm and emotional depth that captivated audiences in the original movies, now in a fresh and engaging format.
The "Inside Out" TV series is scheduled for release in spring 2025, though the exact date and title have yet to be announced. Production on the new spin-off series has wrapped up, and it is gearing up for its release next season.
The series will explore the realm of dreams, echoing the Dream Production sequence from the original film, and will highlight their surreal and vital impact on Riley Andersen's life.
Furthermore, the development process has focused on introducing Anxiety as a character, aiming to offer a personal and relatable look at common emotional experiences like nervousness and tension.
