‘Inside Out 2’ Sets Record with $1 Billion International Gross

Pixar’s “Inside Out 2” has solidified its place in cinematic history by achieving an unprecedented milestone: it is now the first animated film to gross over $1 billion at the international box office alone. Released in the summer of 2024, this highly anticipated sequel has captivated audiences worldwide, leading it to become the highest-grossing movie of the year. As the film enters its eleventh weekend in theaters, its momentum shows no signs of slowing down.

The film’s recent achievement comes after it grossed an additional $9.1 million internationally over the weekend, bringing its total international earnings to approximately $1.002 billion, according to Deadline. This remarkable figure underscores the film’s global appeal and the strong connection it has made with audiences across various cultures and demographics.

In addition to its international success, “Inside Out 2” has also performed exceptionally well in the United States. According to BoxOfficeMojo, the film has grossed $646.3 million domestically, contributing to its worldwide total of $1.6 billion before the most recent weekend’s earnings were accounted for. This places “Inside Out 2” as the highest-grossing movie of the year on a global scale, although it faces competition from the action-packed “Deadpool & Wolverine,” which has grossed $1.2 billion and is steadily climbing the ranks.

The film’s top international markets include Mexico, which has contributed $102 million to its total earnings, followed by Brazil with $79.8 million, the United Kingdom with $70.8 million, South Korea with $63 million, and France with $61.3 million. These figures highlight the widespread popularity of “Inside Out 2” and the universal themes that resonate with viewers across different regions.

“Inside Out 2” is not just a box office success; it is a cultural phenomenon. The sequel continues the story of Riley, the young girl introduced in the original 2015 film, as she navigates the challenges of adolescence. This time, the narrative delves into more complex emotions such as anxiety and embarrassment, which Riley must manage as she grows older. The film’s exploration of these new emotions has struck a chord with both younger and older audiences, making it a must-see film for families and fans of the original.

The success of “Inside Out 2” is particularly significant when viewed in the context of other films that have grossed over $1 billion internationally. According to BoxOfficeMojo, the other eleven films that have achieved this milestone are all live-action, including blockbusters such as “Avatar” ($2.1 billion), “Avengers: Endgame” ($1.9 billion), “Titanic” ($1.6 billion), and “Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens” ($1.1 billion). Notably, even Disney’s 2019 “The Lion King,” which utilized cutting-edge computer-generated imagery, is classified as a live-action film, making “Inside Out 2” the only animated film to join this elite list. This achievement underscores the unique appeal of animation and the ability of Pixar to create compelling stories that transcend the limitations of the medium.

Beyond its box office earnings, “Inside Out 2” has had a broader impact on the film industry. Its success has played a significant role in revitalizing the box office after a challenging period for theaters. The film’s release during the summer of 2024 provided a much-needed boost to the industry, drawing audiences back to theaters and helping to stabilize the market. In addition to its theatrical success, the film is also available for streaming, further expanding its reach and accessibility.

The domestic box office has seen intense competition, particularly with the recent release of “Wolverine & Deadpool,” which reclaimed the number one spot with $18.3 million in U.S. sales over the weekend. This comes after it was temporarily dethroned by “Alien: Romulus,” which secured the second spot with $16.2 million. Despite this competition, “Inside Out 2” remains a dominant force, continuing to draw in audiences and maintain its strong performance both domestically and internationally.

The cultural significance of “Inside Out 2” cannot be overstated. The film not only builds on the legacy of its predecessor but also sets new standards for what animated films can achieve. By exploring complex emotional landscapes through the eyes of a young protagonist, the film offers a nuanced portrayal of adolescence that is both relatable and thought-provoking. This depth of storytelling, combined with Pixar’s renowned animation quality, has resonated with audiences around the world, contributing to the film’s historic box office performance.

In the broader context of animated films, “Inside Out 2” has surpassed previous records set by other animated giants. It is now the highest-grossing animated movie of all time, outpacing previous record-holders such as “Frozen II” ($1.45 billion), “The Super Mario Bros. Movie” ($1.36 billion), and the original “Frozen” ($1.29 billion). This achievement reflects not only the film’s widespread appeal but also the evolution of animation as a powerful storytelling medium capable of addressing complex themes and emotions.

In conclusion, “Inside Out 2” has achieved a milestone that no other animated film has reached, grossing over $1 billion at the international box office. Its success is a testament to the strength of Pixar’s storytelling and the universal appeal of its characters and themes. As the highest-grossing film of 2024, “Inside Out 2” has set a new benchmark for animated films and continues to be a cultural touchstone for audiences around the world. With its ongoing success, it is clear that “Inside Out 2” will be remembered as one of the defining films of its era.