Pixar may have its next original hit on its hands as “Hoppers” heads into theaters with strong early tracking and critical momentum, setting up what could be the studio’s best launch for an original title in years. Industry forecasts indicate the animated adventure is poised to generate around $88 million worldwide across 41 markets in its opening frame, driven by robust family turnout and strong presales.
Domestically, “Hoppers” is projected to open between $36 million and $38 million across roughly 4,000 North American theaters, while international markets are expected to contribute another $45 million to $50 million, bringing the global launch close to the $90 million mark. If those estimates hold, the film would mark the strongest opening for a Pixar original since 2017’s “Coco,” which debuted with $104.7 million worldwide in comparable market conditions.
Early indicators suggest the film is benefiting from exceptional word-of-mouth. On review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes, “Hoppers” currently holds a 97% rating, making it Pixar’s best-reviewed original film in nearly a decade, matching the critical reception of “Coco.” The strong reviews are expected to play a significant role in attracting family audiences and sustaining momentum through the weekend.
Advance ticket sales are also providing encouraging signs. Presales have already crossed $3 million, including some preview activity, placing the film in a similar early sales range to DreamWorks Animation titles such as “The Wild Robot” and “Dog Man.” Both films opened domestically in the mid-$30 million range, suggesting that Pixar’s new release could follow a comparable trajectory.
The studio has also employed a typical family-film rollout strategy to build early awareness. Sneak previews were held in select U.S. theaters on Saturday, with those figures expected to be folded into Thursday preview totals. Regular preview screenings begin Thursday afternoon at 2 p.m., giving the film a head start heading into the weekend.
The film arrives at an important moment for Pixar. While the studio remains one of animation’s most prestigious brands, recent original releases have struggled to replicate the box office dominance that once defined the company. For instance, 2025’s “Elio” debuted to modest numbers globally, underscoring the challenges original animated projects sometimes face in a market increasingly dominated by sequels and established franchises.
“Hoppers,” however, appears well positioned to reverse that trend. The film’s concept — about a young animal lover who transfers her consciousness into a robotic beaver in order to communicate with wildlife — blends comedy, environmental themes and adventure, elements that traditionally resonate strongly with family audiences.
While Pixar’s film is expected to dominate the weekend, it will not be the only major new release in theaters. Warner Bros. will debut “The Bride!”, the gothic noir reinterpretation of the Frankenstein mythology directed by Maggie Gyllenhaal. The film, starring Jessie Buckley alongside Christian Bale, Penélope Cruz, Peter Sarsgaard and Jake Gyllenhaal, is projected to open to $16 million to $18 million domestically, with another $22 million from international territories for a $38 million to $40 million global debut.
“The Bride!” carries a production budget reportedly around $80 million, meaning its box office trajectory will be closely watched as the film enters what Warner Bros. hopes will be an awards-season corridor release window. The studio had initially dated the film for early October before shifting it closer to the awards calendar, positioning it to benefit from the momentum surrounding Jessie Buckley’s Oscar campaign for Focus Features’ “Hamnet.”
The two films will also share IMAX screens during the opening weekend, a factor that could slightly limit premium screen availability for each title but still boost overall ticket revenues due to higher-priced formats.
Despite that competition, industry observers expect “Hoppers” to comfortably lead the global box office thanks to its broader family appeal and strong critical reception. Animated films centered on talking animals have historically proven reliable performers worldwide, often delivering steady business beyond opening weekend as families discover the film through positive word-of-mouth.
Another factor working in Pixar’s favor is the relative lack of major family-oriented competition during the frame. With schools still in session but spring weekends approaching, the film enters a market environment that traditionally favors animated releases.
If the projections hold, “Hoppers” could mark a significant step forward for Pixar’s original storytelling slate — a reminder that even in a franchise-driven marketplace, new animated worlds can still capture audiences when supported by strong reviews and a compelling concept.
For the broader box office, the weekend represents a notable test of whether audiences remain eager for original theatrical animation. Early signs suggest they are — and Pixar’s latest release may be about to deliver the proof.
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