In the month since its release, “Inside Out 2” has exceeded $1 billion in global box office earnings — making it the fastest animated film to achieve this milestone, according to The Walt Disney Company.
The highly anticipated sequel is already the top-grossing movie of the year, but faces tough competition this Fourth of July weekend from another popular animated franchise.
“‘Despicable Me’ is obviously a big contender,” noted film critic Victor Aragon. “‘Inside Out’ is also a standout. However, considering the high ticket prices, great alternatives for home viewing on Netflix would be ‘Ultraman Rising’ and ‘Thelma The Unicorn.’
Aragon, co-founder of the family entertainment blog FanDads, understands the importance of both film content and the cost of taking the whole family to the theater.
The average movie ticket price in the U.S. is currently $10.78, but in cities like Chicago where Aragon resides, it can reach $20 per person.
Illumination & Universal Pictures/AP
“Movies are becoming available for streaming at a faster rate,” Aragon explained. “If you miss the theatrical window, you can wait a bit longer and enjoy the film at home for a fraction of the cost.”
Streaming options are not yet available for films like “Inside Out 2,” prompting Aragon to emphasize the power of word-of-mouth in drawing audiences to theaters. For older viewers and families with teens seeking entertainment this Fourth of July, Aragon suggested a more thrilling movie choice.
“‘A Quiet Place’ could be a good option for the whole family,” he recommended. “It’s rated PG-13, so it might not be too scary. Viewers familiar with ‘Stranger Things’ might appreciate the suspense.”
The horror prequel “A Quiet Place: Day One” grossed $52 million in the U.S. and Canada after its late June release. While it did not dethrone “Inside Out 2” from the top box office spot, rankings could shift due to the highly anticipated debut of “Despicable Me 4,” expected to earn over $125 million beginning July 3.
