The weekend brought a dramatic showdown at the box office, with Zootopia 2 and Wicked for Good launching nearly back-to-back and pulling in strong numbers. Zootopia 2 rode on audience goodwill and family demand, while Wicked for Good targeted older crowds with a darker, more mature tone.

Zootopia 2 reaped the benefits of a post-holiday rebound and broad family appeal. The film’s mix of vibrant animation, comedic timing, and a familiar universe drew a wide demographic base — from kids to parents who grew up with the franchise. That led to a robust opening performance, signaling that the Zootopia brand still holds substantial drawing power.

Wicked for Good, on the other hand, carved out a niche with older teens and adults looking for a darker, more stylized fantasy offering. The movie’s gothic visuals, suspense-leaning narrative, and connection to a well-regarded source material helped it secure a solid opening. Its performance suggests that there remains significant appetite for fantasy thrillers, even alongside big family tentpoles.

The contrasting styles of the two films — animated family adventure vs. darker fantasy thriller — helped them avoid cannibalizing each other’s audiences. Zootopia 2’s family-friendly vibe attracted early afternoon and matinee crowds, while Wicked for Good drew evening and late-night viewers. That scheduling divide helped both films succeed in their respective lanes.

Though exact long-term numbers remain to be seen, both releases appear positioned for healthy box office runs. Zootopia 2 may continue growing through word-of-mouth and repeat family viewings, while Wicked for Good could sustain momentum if its darker tone resonates with horror and fantasy fans.

This weekend’s results also reflect how diversified offerings — from lighthearted animation to bold fantasy — continue to carry commercial weight. Studios willing to serve varied audiences may find that two very different movies can thrive simultaneously.