Disney/Pixar’s Hoppers is off to a stellar start at the domestic box office, earning an estimated $41 million in its opening weekend. The madcap animal comedy directed by Daniel Chong marks the best debut for an original animated film since Pixar’s Coco in 2017, which opened to $50.1 million. After a $13.2 million Friday, industry analysts expect the film’s numbers could climb higher if family turnout over the weekend exceeds projections. With a 94% critics and audience score on Rotten Tomatoes and an “A” CinemaScore, Hoppers is positioned for strong legs throughout March, especially with spring break boosting attendance.
Pixar’s Recovery
The success of Hoppers is a welcome boost for Pixar, which has faced challenges with original titles in recent years. Films like Soul, Luca, and Turning Red went straight to streaming, while Elemental had to build momentum from a modest $29 million opening to eventually gross nearly $495 million worldwide. Last summer’s Elio struggled with a $20.8 million debut, making Hoppers a significant rebound for the studio. Though it doesn’t match the $75 million opening of Zootopia in 2016, Hoppers represents the strongest theatrical launch for an original animated film since the pandemic, giving Pixar renewed momentum in the marketplace.
Warner Bros. Hit Streak Ends
Meanwhile, Warner Bros.’ The Bride! failed to connect with audiences, opening to just $8 million against an $80 million budget. The noir monster film starring Jessie Buckley and Christian Bale marks the studio’s weakest debut since The Alto Knights in 2025. Reviews for The Bride! were mixed, with a 60% Rotten Tomatoes score and a C+ CinemaScore. Audience turnout was underwhelming, sealing its fate as a box office disappointment and ending Warner Bros.’ streak of nine consecutive No. 1 films.
Other Box Office Movers
Paramount/Spyglass’ Scream 7 took a steep 74% drop from its record-setting $63.6 million opening but still managed to secure second place with $16.7 million. Despite the decline, it easily outperformed The Bride! and remains a stronger draw for audiences seeking horror thrills.
Looking Ahead
With Hoppers enjoying strong word-of-mouth and a month-long runway before Universal/Illumination’s Super Mario Galaxy Movie arrives on Easter weekend, Pixar’s latest could continue to dominate family audiences and solidify its place as one of the year’s standout animated releases.
