According to 163 News, the animated film Zootopia 2 is causing a sensation across China. Media outlets are continuously reporting on its record-breaking box office numbers, with the Hollywood production even surpassing the domestic blockbuster Nezha 2: The Devil Returns to the Sea on its home turf.
The film premiered in China on November 26 and quickly dominated, accounting for about 70% of all showings and around 90% of total box office revenue. On Saturday, November 29, Zootopia 2 grossed over $115 million USD, breaking the previous record for the highest single-day box office for a Hollywood film in China, which was held by Avengers: Endgame at $107 million. It also surpassed Nezha 2’s all-time single-day record of $112 million.
Within just six days, Zootopia 2 crossed ¥2 billion RMB in revenue, overtaking Endgame to become the highest-grossing imported film in Chinese box office history. According to statistics site Maoyan, the film is projected to reach ¥4.2 billion RMB, but thanks to strong word-of-mouth, predictions suggest it may exceed ¥5 billion. In only six days, it became one of the top three highest-grossing animated films in Chinese history, following the two Nezha films.
Over 50 million people watched Zootopia 2 within its first six days of release.
163 notes that Zootopia 2 is unlike previous imported animations. The film captivated audiences of all ages in China with its unique characters, vivid setting, and meaningful storylines.
It’s not only a charming and humorous depiction of a whimsical animal world, but also a touching coming-of-age journey. Judy the brave rabbit and Nick the clever fox showcase teamwork and resilience in the face of challenges. Their dynamic relationship is another element that has fans buzzing. These layers of emotion and reflection on life, wrapped in humor and heart, deeply moved audiences.
One young viewer commented, “This movie isn’t just entertainment — it made me reflect on life’s challenges and choices.”
Despite its success, Zootopia 2 has posed a challenge to Chinese filmmakers. Prior to the film’s release, the Chinese film industry was struggling, with poor ticket sales and a cold market. 163 noted that, except for the Lunar New Year period, no Chinese film in 2025 surpassed ¥700 million RMB. Meanwhile, Zootopia 2 easily crossed ¥1 billion RMB in just three days.
Its success highlighted that the problem isn’t with the market but with the films themselves — Chinese audiences are willing to return to theaters when given a film that genuinely interests them.
In contrast, many recent Chinese films have been criticized as boring, overly niche, or out of touch with mainstream preferences.
A film expert remarked, “It’s not that China’s film industry is dying — it’s that arrogant directors refuse to humble themselves.”
The analysis criticized local filmmakers for being out of touch with the public, focusing instead on awards or propaganda content that doesn’t resonate with most viewers. Artistic expression has become abstract, with media manipulating audience perception, while actual film quality and performances continue to decline.
“The love and support of the audience should inspire filmmakers to pursue deeper, more creative works. They must stay in touch with the market, while also reflecting humanistic values and social significance to create timeless classics,” 163 concluded.
The fox and rabbit duo from Zootopia 2 have become an obsession among Chinese fans.
Sources: kenh14