‘Inside Out 2’ Falls From the Top Spot in Animated Film Rankings

In the world of animated films, breaking records and surpassing expectations is always a thrilling moment for studios and fans alike. The release of Inside Out 2 in 2024 was one such moment. Pixar’s highly anticipated sequel quickly became a fan favorite, capturing hearts worldwide with its stunning animation and emotional storytelling.

Related: Disney and Pixar Make Huge Change to “Too Heavy” Inside Out 2

For a time, it was celebrated not just as a sequel but as a benchmark for animated films. However, as quickly as it rose to the top, Inside Out 2 has now found itself dethroned by a surprising contender, sparking discussions across social media and film circles alike.

After breaking records and earning nearly $1.7 billion globally, Inside Out 2 took the crown as the highest-grossing animated film of all time. Fans were thrilled, and Disney was rightfully proud. Yet, the reign didn’t last long.

Just months after the film’s monumental success, another animated film from an unexpected source has knocked Inside Out 2 from its top spot.

Related: Get Ready for More Emotions: ‘Inside Out 3’ Announced by Pixar Writer!

According to a report from Forbes:

In just the past few weeks, Disney’s blockbuster was knocked off the top spot by the most unlikely of rivals. Ne Zha 2, the Chinese computer-animated movie is made by publicly-traded Beijing Enlight Media, played in just 945 theaters in North America when it opened in February, compared to 4,440 for Inside Out 2.

In February, Ne Zha 2 overtook Inside Out 2 and has since surged to a total of $1.9 billion at the box office, comfortably making it the highest-grossing movie of the year so far.

The news of Inside Out 2 being dethroned has shocked many, especially considering the immense popularity of Pixar’s sequel and its successful run in theaters across the world.

Ne Zha 2, a Chinese animated film based on mythology, tells the story of a demon child raised by humans, who embarks on a quest to find a magical potion to reanimate his fallen dragon friend.

Despite a more limited release in North America and much fewer theaters showing the film compared to Inside Out 2, Ne Zha 2 has proven to be a massive success, dominating the box office.

The rise of Ne Zha 2 over Inside Out 2 is significant not only in terms of the global box office figures, but also in showing the growing international appeal of animated films beyond Hollywood. While Disney and Pixar continue to dominate the animation market, Ne Zha 2’s success signals a shift in the types of animated films that are resonating with audiences worldwide.

The film’s rich cultural heritage and stunning animation may be part of its universal appeal.

Looking ahead, Disney’s slate of upcoming animated films will certainly be under more scrutiny. Elio, scheduled for release on June 20, 2025, and the much-anticipated Zootopia 2 on November 26, 2025, will have high expectations as they seek to capture the magic that made Inside Out 2 a success. But can they achieve the same level of global success as Ne Zha 2? Only time will tell.

Are you surprised by Inside Out 2 being dethroned by Ne Zha 2? Do you think other international animated films will continue to challenge Hollywood’s dominance in the genre? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!