Pixar’s Elio Stumbles at the Box Office as 28 Years Later and Dragon Dominate
Pixar’s latest original animated film, Elio, has hit a rocky start, marking the studio’s lowest global opening ever with just $35 million. Domestically, the film made $21 million, with an additional $14 million internationally. This opening falls short of even Elemental’s lukewarm debut of $44.5 million in 2023 – though that film eventually rallied to nearly $500 million globally.
There’s still a glimmer of hope for Elio, as key international markets like China, Japan, and Spain are yet to open, and summer holidays could give it a family-friendly bump. Critically, the film has fared better, earning praise for its emotional depth and visuals. IGN rated it 9/10, highlighting its “dazzling animation and striking emotional core.”
But audiences haven’t flocked to theaters. One key issue seems to be marketing – or the lack of it. Many moviegoers reported only seeing posters or hearing about the film shortly before release. Confusing trailers and limited promotion likely contributed to muted interest, especially in a year crowded with family film competition.
How to Train Your Dragon continues to soar, raking in $350 million globally in its second weekend and locking in the top spot at the U.S. box office. A sequel has already been confirmed.
Meanwhile, Disney’s own live-action Lilo & Stitch remake is crushing it, reaching a staggering $910.3 million in just five weeks and eyeing the billion-dollar milestone.
The horror genre also made waves this weekend. 28 Years Later, the follow-up to Danny Boyle’s acclaimed zombie saga, debuted strong with $60 million globally, split evenly between domestic and international markets. It’s the biggest opening ever for a Boyle-directed film, and with a second installment already filmed, a third seems all but greenlit. IGN also gave this sequel a 9/10, praising its haunting emotional impact and sociopolitical relevance.
Other notables this weekend include Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning at $540.9 million, Ballerina at $104.5 million, Final Destination: Bloodlines at $280.1 million, and Sinners closing in on $364 million.
For Pixar, Elio may still find its audience – eventually – but its muted launch is a sign that brand loyalty alone isn’t enough anymore. In a crowded market with streaming options and weak promotion, even a good movie can struggle to be seen.