The “Sonic the Hedgehog” franchise is quickly becoming the crown jewel of Paramount’s theatrical slate, moving from a successful trilogy into a full-scale cinematic universe. Following the immense hype surrounding the third installment, the studio has effectively mapped out a long-term strategy to keep the momentum going. This strategy includes not only the expected continuation of the main storyline but also high-stakes event films and mysterious side projects that aim to replicate the interconnected success of major superhero franchises.



<h2>A Growing Slate of High-Speed Adventures</h2>



The current roadmap for the franchise is becoming increasingly crowded, with “Sonic the Hedgehog 4” already locked in for a March 19, 2027, release date. While details on that film remain under wraps, it is widely expected to introduce new fan-favorite characters like Amy Rose or Metal Sonic to the live-action fold.



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1280" height="720" data-id="83959" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/29/2026/01/24103006/Sonic1-1280x720.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-83959"></figure><figcaption>Source: IMDb</figcaption></figure>
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However, the most intriguing news comes from the scheduling of a “Sonic Event Movie” set to dominate the holiday box office on December 22, 2028. This title suggests a massive crossover or a pivotal story beat that could unite multiple corners of the franchise’s growing lore.



Beyond these two confirmed windows, industry insiders are now pointing toward a third unannounced Sonic movie that is currently in early development. Unlike the 2027 and 2028 projects, this film does not yet have a formal release year, leaving it as a “To Be Determined” wildcard on the production calendar. Speculation among the community is already reaching a fever pitch, with many wondering if this project will serve as a solo vehicle for Keanu Reeves’ Shadow the Hedgehog or perhaps a spin-off featuring the chaotic Team Chaotix.



This aggressive expansion reflects Paramount’s confidence in the brand’s ability to draw audiences outside of the traditional sequel structure. By alternating between core entries and event films, the studio is positioning Sonic as a year-round powerhouse in the entertainment landscape. For fans of the series, the message is clear: the race is only just beginning, and there are plenty of secret projects still waiting in the wings to be revealed.

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The massive success of the latest sequel has turned “Zootopia” into an unstoppable juggernaut for Disney Animation. With box office records shattering and the creative team already dropping breadcrumbs about the future, the conversation has officially shifted from if a third installment is coming to when we can expect it. Here is the current landscape of the rumors and reality surrounding the potential three-quel.



<h2>The Future of the Franchise and the Early Buzz</h2>



The momentum for a third film began building even before the second chapter hit the big screen. Directors Byron Howard and Jared Bush, along with the core voice cast, have been vocal about the vastness of the “Zootopia” universe and the untapped stories remaining in its diverse districts. This open dialogue between the creators and the fans suggests that the studio views this as a long term pillar of their animation slate rather than a closed story.



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1280" height="720" data-id="83687" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/29/2026/01/20112442/Zootopia1-2-1280x720.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-83687"></figure><figcaption>Source: IMDb</figcaption></figure>
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The financial data has only strengthened the case for an immediate greenlight. With the second film crossing the $1 billion mark in record breaking time, Disney has every incentive to keep the engine running. This commercial triumph, paired with a suggestive post credits scene involving a mysterious narrative focus on birds, has fueled intense speculation that an official announcement from the studio is imminent.



Concrete evidence of development surfaced on December 21, when Howard and Bush confirmed that the creative process is technically already underway. Bush has reportedly begun the early sketching phase, visualizing the aesthetic and characters that would define the next chapter. While a script may not be finalized, the fact that the directors are already putting pen to paper indicates a high level of confidence in the franchise’s trajectory.



The potential shift toward avian characters hints at an expansion of the world’s geography, possibly taking audiences into the skies or high altitude districts. By blending these new creative directions with the established chemistry of the lead duo, the production team seems poised to evolve the series while maintaining the social commentary and heart that made the original a classic. For now, fans are watching the skies and waiting for the formal word from the House of Mouse.

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The long-awaited sequel to the 2016 Oscar winner has officially overtaken Pixar’s “Inside Out 2” to become the highest-grossing animated film released by a Hollywood studio, amassing a staggering $1.7 billion at the global box office. This monumental achievement cements the franchise’s status as a cultural juggernaut, driven by a historic performance in international markets—most notably in China, where it has become the most successful American animated release ever.



<h2>A New Alpha at the Box Office</h2>



The record-shattering run of “Zootopia 2” is a testament to the enduring chemistry between Ginnifer Goodwin’s Judy Hopps and Jason Bateman’s Nick Wilde. Directed by the returning powerhouse duo of Jared Bush and Byron Howard, the sequel expanded the world of Zootopia by introducing reptilian residents, led by Ke Huy Quan’s mysterious Gary De’Snake. This fresh dynamic, paired with the picture’s signature blend of social commentary and buddy cop humor, resonated with audiences of all ages, allowing the film to reach the $1 billion mark faster than any animated feature in history.



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1280" height="720" data-id="83582" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/29/2026/01/19075927/Zootopia1-1-1280x720.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-83582"></figure><figcaption>Source: IMDb</figcaption></figure>
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Industry analysts attribute much of this success to the title’s massive appeal in Asia, where it didn’t just compete with local blockbusters but dominated them. In China alone, the flick has brought in over $600 million, nearly doubling the domestic haul of several other major 2025 releases. While the Chinese blockbuster “Ne Zha 2” still holds the absolute global record for an animated film, “Zootopia 2” now stands as the undisputed king of Hollywood animation, surpassing previous titans like “The Lion King (2019)” and “Frozen II.”



Beyond the raw numbers, the movie has achieved Certified Fresh status with a 96% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, proving that Disney’s storytelling remains as potent as ever. The studio’s decision to lean into more complex themes—touching on the integration of new species and the evolution of Judy and Nick’s partnership—gave the sequel the emotional weight necessary to sustain its legs through the competitive holiday season and well into the new year.



As the film continues its theatrical run, the conversation has already shifted to the future of the franchise. With the original and the sequel now having combined for over $2.7 billion, the pressure for a third installment is at an all-time high. For now, Disney is taking a victory lap, celebrating a production that has redefined the financial ceiling for what a Hollywood animated feature can achieve.

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Voice acting was once considered a niche corner of the entertainment industry, but over the past few decades it has become one of its most lucrative lanes. As animated films and TV shows evolved into worldwide franchises, the voices behind those characters gained star power comparable to live action actors. From family friendly icons to long running TV staples, these ten voice actors didn’t just define animation history, they reshaped its pay scale.



<h2>10. Frank Welker</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1280" height="720" data-id="83155" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/29/2026/01/13164434/Voice1-1280x720.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-83155"></figure><figcaption>Source: Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images</figcaption></figure>
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Often called one of the most important voice actors, Frank Welker has parlayed a 50-year career into a net worth of roughly $15 million. While he lacks the ownership stakes of the creators on this list, his sheer volume of work is unparalleled, spanning from the original Fred Jones in Scooby-Doo to Megatron in Transformers. His legacy is built on being the industry’s most reliable session artist, famously providing virtually every animal sound and creature effect in Hollywood blockbusters for decades.



<h2>9. Nancy Cartwright</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1280" height="720" data-id="83156" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/29/2026/01/13164526/Voice2-1280x720.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-83156"></figure><figcaption>Source: Kevin Winter/Getty Images</figcaption></figure>
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By giving life to the world’s most famous underachiever, Nancy Cartwright has achieved a staggering net worth of $60 million through her work as Bart Simpson. Beyond her primary role, Cartwright has diversified her income by voicing characters in Rugrats and Kim Possible, while also operating her own successful production company, Spotted Cow Entertainment. Her career highlights the massive financial leverage available to performers whose voices become inextricably linked to a global marketing phenomenon.



<h2>8. Mike Judge</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1280" height="720" data-id="83157" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/29/2026/01/13164621/Voice3-1280x720.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-83157"></figure><figcaption>Source: Jon Kopaloff/Getty Images for Paramount+</figcaption></figure>
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The creative mind behind the blue-collar humor of King of the Hill and the chaotic satire of Beavis and Butt-Head sits on a net worth of approximately $80 million. Mike Judge’s wealth is a direct result of his triple-threat status as a creator, writer, and lead voice actor, which allows him to claim a much higher percentage of backend profits than a standard performer. His recent revival deals for his classic properties have ensured that his characters—and his bank account—remain relevant in the streaming era.



<h2>7. Julie Kavner</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1280" height="720" data-id="83158" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/29/2026/01/13164717/Voice4-1280x720.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-83158"></figure><figcaption>Source: Rodin Eckenroth/Getty Images for 20th Century Studios</figcaption></figure>
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The woman behind the iconic, raspy matriarch Marge Simpson has maintained a steady presence in the top tier of TV earners, amassing an estimated $85 million fortune. Since 1989, Julie Kavner’s financial trajectory has mirrored the explosive growth of The Simpsons, moving from a few thousand dollars per episode to a peak of $400,000 during the show’s commercial zenith. Her contract remains a gold standard for voice performers, ensuring her a significant share of the most profitable animated franchise in history.



<h2>6. Yeardley Smith</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1280" height="720" data-id="83159" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/29/2026/01/13164813/Voice5-1280x720.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-83159"></figure><figcaption>Source: Mark Davis/Getty Images for Screen Actors Guild Foundation</figcaption></figure>
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Despite being the only member of the Simpsons principal cast to voice just one main character, Yeardley Smith has utilized Lisa Simpson to build an $85 million empire. Her wealth is a combination of decades of high-salary per-episode fees and her savvy investments outside of the recording booth, including her own women’s luxury footwear line and a successful podcasting career. Smith’s financial standing proves that mastering a single, iconic role can be more lucrative than voicing a hundred minor ones.



<h2>5. Harry Shearer</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1280" height="720" data-id="83160" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/29/2026/01/13164908/Voice6-1280x720.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-83160"></figure><figcaption>Source: Monica Schipper/Getty Images for Tribeca Film Festival</figcaption></figure>
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Harry Shearer’s $85 million net worth is a direct reflection of his status as the voice of authority in Springfield, portraying everyone from Mr. Burns and Principal Skinner to Ned Flanders. Throughout his decades on The Simpsons, Shearer has famously been one of the most vocal negotiators for the cast, helping to secure the historic pay raises that redefined what an animated performer could earn. His diverse career in satire, radio, and film has further solidified his position as one of the wealthiest voices in the business.



<h2>4. Dan Castellaneta</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1280" height="720" data-id="83161" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/29/2026/01/13165027/Voice7-1280x720.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-83161"></figure><figcaption>Source: Kevin Winter/Getty Images</figcaption></figure>
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At the heart of the most successful animated show of all time, Dan Castellaneta’s portrayal of Homer Simpson has earned him a net worth of approximately $85 million. As the voice of the show’s central protagonist, his earnings have consistently ranked at the very top of the industry, fueled by merchandising, syndication, and a record-breaking number of episodes. His ability to anchor a global brand for over 35 years has made him a permanent fixture on the list of entertainment’s highest-paid individuals.



<h2>3. Hank Azaria</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1280" height="720" data-id="83162" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/29/2026/01/13165124/Voice8-1280x720.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-83162"></figure><figcaption>Source: Theo Wargo/Getty Images</figcaption></figure>
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As a chameleon who provides the voices for Moe Szyslak, Chief Wiggum, and Comic Book Guy, Hank Azaria has earned a net worth estimated at $90 million. His income is bolstered not only by his high-six-figure salary per episode on The Simpsons but also by a flourishing live-action career in both film and television. Azaria’s longevity in the industry is a testament to the high market value placed on versatile utility players who can carry the vocal load of an entire supporting cast.



<h2>2. Seth MacFarlane</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1280" height="720" data-id="83163" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/29/2026/01/13165259/Voice9-1280x720.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-83163"></figure><figcaption>Source: Kevin Winter/Getty Images</figcaption></figure>
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Seth MacFarlane has transformed a single pitch for Family Guy into a multimedia empire, resulting in an estimated net worth of $300 million to $400 million. While he technically earns a salary for voicing Peter, Stewie, and Brian, the bulk of his wealth comes from massive overall deals with networks like Fox and NBCUniversal that pay him to create and produce content. By retaining a producer credit on nearly everything he voices, MacFarlane has bridged the gap between a voice actor and a studio mogul.



<h2>1. Matt Stone and Trey Parker</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1280" height="720" data-id="83164" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/29/2026/01/13165355/Voice10-1280x720.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-83164"></figure><figcaption>Source: Jon Kopaloff/Getty Images for Paramount+</figcaption></figure>
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Taking the undisputed top spot with a combined net worth of roughly $1.2 billion each, the South Park creators are the wealthiest voice actors in the history of the medium. Their 2021 deal with ViacomCBS, worth a reported $900 million, set a new industry record and included an unprecedented 50% stake in the show’s digital and streaming rights. By voicing nearly all the main characters in a show they also own, Stone and Parker have achieved a level of financial autonomy and wealth that remains unmatched in Hollywood.

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The global anime community has been buzzing after an exclusive report from the French newspaper Le Monde resurfaced a year later, where legendary mangaka Makoto Yukimura revealed that the third season of “Vinland Saga” is officially in production. After the emotional and transformative “Farmland Saga” concluded, fans remained in a state of uncertainty regarding when—or if—Studio MAPPA would return to animate the next chapter of the protagonist’s quest for a land without war.



<h2>‘Vinland Saga’ Season 3: What to Expect Next</h2>



The confirmation comes at a pivotal moment for the franchise, as the manga recently reached its grand conclusion. This ensures that the production team now has the complete roadmap for the story, allowing them to adapt the remaining chapters with the same narrative precision that defined the first two seasons. While an official confirmation and release date has yet to be pinned down by the production committee, Yukimura’s candidness suggests that the gears are already turning behind the scenes.



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1280" height="720" data-id="81982" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/spen/full/SPEN_20260102_SPEN_81978_Vineland1_79948ee8.webp&amp;width=1280&amp;height=720" alt="" class="wp-image-81982"></figure><figcaption>Source: IMDb</figcaption></figure>
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This upcoming season is expected to cover the Eastern Expedition Arc, a significant tonal shift from the meditative pace of the second season. It is a journey marked by high-seas adventure, the introduction of fan-favorite characters like Sigurd and Gudrid, and the constant struggle to maintain a pacifist philosophy in a world that only understands violence.



From a technical standpoint, all eyes remain on MAPPA. Although the studio has been juggling a massive slate of high-profile projects, their work on Season 2 was lauded for its cinematic beauty and emotional depth. If the production timeline follows previous patterns, we can likely expect a teaser trailer or a formal “Key Visual” later this year, signaling a potential premiere in late 2026 or early 2027.



The stakes for Season 3 couldn’t be higher. “Vinland Saga” has evolved from a standard revenge story into one of the most profound explorations of human nature in modern media. By moving into the Eastern Expedition, the series will test the protagonist’s resolve like never before, proving that building a peaceful world is far more difficult than destroying one.

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The “Public Domain Day” class of 2026 has officially arrived, and while the headlines are buzzing with the news that Pluto is now “free,” the legal reality is a bit more tangled than a backyard game of fetch. As of January 1, 2026, the 95-year copyright clock has run out for works published in 1930, effectively liberating the earliest iterations of the character—though you might not recognize him by name just yet.



<h2>The Pup, the Myth, and the Legal Fine Print</h2>



The version of the character entering the public domain today isn’t technically the “Pluto” we know from modern lunchboxes, but rather his unnamed and roughly-sketched ancestors. 



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1280" height="720" data-id="81974" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/spen/full/SPEN_20260101_SPEN_81973_Pluto_462a18e2.webp&amp;width=1280&amp;height=720" alt="" class="wp-image-81974"></figure><figcaption>Source: IMDb</figcaption></figure>
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Specifically, the copyright has expired on the 1930 shorts The Chain Gang, where he appeared as an anonymous bloodhound tracking Mickey, and The Picnic, where he was introduced as Minnie Mouse’s pet under the name “Rover.” This means creators are now free to use these specific 1930 visual designs and character traits—such as his unbridled enthusiasm and non-anthropomorphic behavior—without seeking a license or paying royalties to the House of Mouse.



However, the “Pluto” brand itself remains largely under lock and key for another year. The character wasn’t actually christened with his famous name until the 1931 short The Moose Hunt, which means the specific moniker “Pluto” and his established status as Mickey’s personal companion won’t join the public commons until January 1, 2027. If you’re planning a project today, you can legally depict a yellow-orange bloodhound with black ears who acts like a real dog, but calling him “Pluto” in your marketing could still land you in a legal doghouse.



Furthermore, Disney continues to hold powerful weaponized tools in the form of trademarks. While copyright protects the creative work itself, trademarks protect the brand identity and the source of a product. Just as we saw with Mickey’s Steamboat Willie debut in 2024, anyone can now use the 1930 “Rover” in a comic or film, but they cannot use him in a way that tricks the public into believing the work is an official Disney production. For independent creators, this marks a massive opportunity for reimagining a classic, provided they stay within the boundaries of the 1930 source material.

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In a historic year for animation, “Zootopia 2” has officially ascended the throne at Walt Disney Animation Studios. As of the final box office tallies on New Year’s Eve 2025, the high-octane sequel starring Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde has amassed a staggering $1.464 billion worldwide. By crossing this threshold, it has narrowly edged out the previous record-holder, “Frozen 2” ($1.45 billion), to become the most successful film in the legendary studio’s century-long history.



<h2>A Global Phenomenon: How the Mammal Metropolis Conquered the World</h2>



The road to the record was paved with unprecedented international enthusiasm, particularly in China. While “Frozen 2” maintained a stronger hold on the domestic North American market, “Zootopia 2” became a cultural juggernaut in Asia, where it broke multiple records for non-local animated features. This massive surge in overseas ticket sales allowed the film to reach the $1 billion milestone in a record-breaking 17 days, the fastest ever for a PG-rated animated film.



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1280" height="720" data-id="81956" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/spen/full/SPEN_20251231_SPEN_81949_Zootopia1-2_f93d1620.webp&amp;width=1280&amp;height=720" alt="" class="wp-image-81956"></figure><figcaption>Source: IMDb</figcaption></figure>
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This victory is a testament to the enduring appeal of the world created by Byron Howard and Jared Bush. Audiences returned to theaters in droves to see the evolution of Judy and Nick’s partnership, which was bolstered by a “Certified Hot” audience score and critical praise for its expansion of the city’s diverse districts. The film didn’t just capitalize on nostalgia; it utilized a clever marketing campaign that leaned into the buddy-cop energy that made the 2016 original a surprise hit.



The internal shift at Disney is also notable, as this marks the first time since 2013 that a franchise other than “Frozen” has held the top spot for the animation division. Industry analysts point to the film’s 5-day Thanksgiving opening of $556 million as the turning point that signaled a historic run was underway. Even with heavy competition from the holiday release of “Avatar: Fire and Ash,” the furry sequel maintained incredible legs throughout December.



Looking ahead, the success of “Zootopia 2” places it among the titans of the medium. It currently sits as the fourth-highest-grossing animated film of all time, trailing only Pixar’s “Inside Out 2,” the 2019 reimagining of “The Lion King,” and the recent international juggernaut “Ne Zha 2.” For Disney, this reinforces the strategy of high-budget, high-concept sequels, proving that the residents of Zootopia still have plenty of stories left to tell—and plenty of records left to break.

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The theatrical landscape has been slow to regain its footing since the pandemic reshaped audience habits and release strategies across Hollywood. While blockbuster filmmaking remains a high-risk proposition, only a handful of studios have consistently found ways to bring audiences back to cinemas worldwide. This year, one company managed to separate itself from the pack, achieving a financial benchmark that had seemed increasingly out of reach.



<h2>Disney Reaches a Rare Post-Pandemic Box Office Milestone</h2>



According to Variety, Disney has surpassed $6 billion in global box office revenue, marking its first time reaching that level since COVID disrupted the theatrical business. The achievement is especially notable given that no other studio has crossed the $6 billion threshold since 2015, highlighting just how dramatically industry economics have shifted over the past decade.



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1280" height="720" data-id="81267" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/spen/full/SPEN_20251225_SPEN_81265_Zootopia1-1_6b229b0d.webp&amp;width=1280&amp;height=720" alt="" class="wp-image-81267"></figure><figcaption>Source: IMDb</figcaption></figure>
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This milestone represents Disney’s fifth time hitting $6 billion overall, following a dominant pre-pandemic run from 2016 through 2019. The return to that level comes despite the broader box office still trailing its pre-COVID strength, with global ticket sales estimated to remain roughly 20% below where they stood before the industry shutdown.



Much of Disney’s success in 2025 has been driven by a small number of outsized hits. “Lilo and Stitch” reached approximately $1.03 billion worldwide, while “Zootopia 2” has climbed to around $1.3 billion and continues to add to its total. James Cameron’s “Avatar: Fire and Ash” also made an immediate impact, earning roughly $450 million globally in just its first week of release.



Beyond those tentpoles, “Captain America: Brave New World,” “Thunderbolts,” and “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” contributed significantly to the studio’s overall haul. In total, Disney generated about $2.3 billion at the domestic box office and an additional $3.65 billion internationally, reaffirming its unique ability to deliver global theatrical events at a time when such scale has become increasingly rare.

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On December 24, 1925, Winnie-the-Pooh made his very first appearance in print in a Christmas story by A.A. Milne, marking the modest beginning of what would become one of the most beloved characters in children’s literature. While that Christmas Eve debut is the bear’s true literary birth, Pooh has gathered a few other “birthdays” over the years as his fame grew. 



Fans often celebrate him on August 21, the day Milne’s son Christopher Robin received the real teddy bear that inspired the character, or on January 18, A.A. Milne’s own birthday, now officially recognized as National Winnie the Pooh Day. Together, these dates reflect how deeply the honey-loving bear has woven himself into both literary history and popular culture. But what is truly behind the beloved icon?



<h2>The Real Bears, Toys, and Places Behind Winnie-the-Pooh</h2>



Winnie-the-Pooh was born from a deeply personal blend of family life, imagination, and chance encounters. As stated before, A.A. Milne named the character after a teddy bear owned by his son, Christopher Robin Milne, who also inspired the boy character in the stories. While Milne provided the words, illustrator E.H. Shepard shaped Pooh’s visual identity by basing him not on Christopher Robin’s bear, but on his own son’s teddy bear, Growler.



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1280" height="720" data-id="81211" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/spen/full/SPEN_20251224_SPEN_81209_Winnie1_550d5831.webp&amp;width=1280&amp;height=720" alt="" class="wp-image-81211"></figure><figcaption>Source: Peter Macdiarmid/Getty Images</figcaption></figure>
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Christopher Robin’s other toys filled out the rest of the Hundred Acre Wood. Piglet, Eeyore, Kanga, Roo, and Tigger were all real stuffed animals brought to life through Milne’s writing, while Owl and Rabbit were creations of pure imagination. Disney later added Gopher for animation. Today, the original teddy bear that inspired Pooh is preserved at the New York Public Library.



The name “Winnie-the-Pooh” itself carries an unusual backstory. In 1921, Milne bought his son the famous bear from Harrods, which Christopher Robin first called Edward, then renamed Winnie after a Canadian black bear he adored at the London Zoo. That real bear, Winnie, had been rescued as a cub by Canadian soldier Harry Colebourn during World War I and named after his hometown of Winnipeg. “Pooh” came from a pet swan the family encountered on holiday.



The setting of the stories was just as real as the characters. Milne set Winnie-the-Pooh in Ashdown Forest, near the family’s country home, transforming familiar paths, bridges, and hilltops into the Hundred Acre Wood. The creator later wrote in his autobiography that the fictional forest and the real one were “identical,” with locations like Poohsticks Bridge and Five Hundred Acre Wood still visited today. Even Shepard’s illustrations closely mirrored the actual landscape, grounding Pooh’s gentle world in a place that truly existed.

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According to Discussing Film, the animated feature “Zootopia 2” has achieved an unprecedented milestone, becoming the first Hollywood production to surpass a single-day gross of $100M in the Chinese box office. This astounding financial performance underscores the sequel’s extraordinary popularity and commercial dominance in the territory, far exceeding previous records for imported pictures. The success firmly establishes the Disney movie as a cultural powerhouse and a key player in the global cinematic landscape, especially as it redefines Hollywood’s earning potential in this vital market.



<h2>Disney Returns to ‘Zootopia 2’ With a Bigger, Bolder Sequel</h2>



“Zootopia 2” arrives almost a decade after the original hit, and Disney Animation approaches this sequel with the confidence of a studio expanding one of its strongest modern franchises. 



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1280" height="720" data-id="78964" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/spen/full/SPEN_20251129_SPEN_78962_Zootopia1_51a708cd.webp&amp;width=1280&amp;height=720" alt="" class="wp-image-78964"></figure><figcaption>Source: IMDb</figcaption></figure>
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Jared Bush and Byron Howard return to guide the world of the bustling animal metropolis, and the cast list is packed with familiar and new voices. Ginnifer Goodwin and Jason Bateman once again lead as Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde, while newcomers such as Ke Huy Quan, Quinta Brunson, Andy Samberg and Danny Trejo bring a surge of fresh energy. The film blends comedy, mystery and social commentary, now enriched by the introduction of reptile characters who broaden the cultural landscape of the city.



The picture premiered at the El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood before its nationwide release in the United States. Early reactions from critics were positive, with praise for the brisk pacing, inventive world building and the way the sequel expands on themes introduced in the first movie. Audiences also responded enthusiastically, lifting the film to more than two hundred million dollars worldwide within days and positioning it as one of Disney’s most successful recent animated releases.



A large share of attention has focused on Gary De Snake, voiced by Ke Huy Quan, who quickly became a standout figure in the new story. His presence brings a new emotional dimension as Judy and Nick are drawn into hidden corners of Zootopia that were only hinted at in the first movie. Returning cast members such as Idris Elba, Shakira, Bonnie Hunt and Alan Tudyk help the film feel like a natural continuation of a world that audiences already know and love.



Behind the scenes, Disney assembled a creative team filled with familiar names. Michael Giacchino returned to compose the score, which echoes the original while exploring new musical ideas. Shakira collaborated with Ed Sheeran to create the song titled “Zoo,” which became a major part of the promotional campaign. With an expansive cast, a larger canvas and a story that probes deeper into the city’s history, “Zootopia 2” aims to evolve the franchise in meaningful ways, and early reception suggests that viewers are eager to follow Judy and Nick into their next adventure.

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Before Toy Story 5 takes audiences back to the world of talking toys and bittersweet nostalgia, animation fans find themselves standing at a fascinating crossroads — one where artistry, emotion, and storytelling continue to evolve beyond what Pixar first imagined.



Animated cinema has moved from the playroom to the profound, offering stories that resonate far beyond age or genre. Each film in this realm carries its own pulse — hand-drawn dreams, stop-motion wonders, and digital marvels that redefine what “animated” truly means.



<h2>Spirited Away (2001)</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/spen/full/SPEN_20251112_SPEN_77038_Chihiro_697b790a.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-77049"></figure><figcaption>(Source: IMDb)</figcaption></figure>



Before Pixar taught toys to feel, Studio Ghibli taught spirits to dream. Hayao Miyazaki’s masterpiece blends the surreal and the spiritual in a fable that’s both deeply human and utterly otherworldly. Through Chihiro’s journey into a realm of gods, greed, and transformation, the film explores identity and innocence with painterly grace. Every frame breathes; every detail feels alive — proof that animation can be poetry in motion.



<h2>Up (2009)</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/spen/full/SPEN_20251112_SPEN_77038_up.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-77048"></figure><figcaption>(Source: IMDb)</figcaption></figure>



Few films capture the ache of growing old and the thrill of discovery quite like Up. Pixar’s tale of Carl Fredricksen’s floating house is both whimsical and profoundly human. Its famous opening montage — a silent hymn to love and loss — remains one of cinema’s most devastating sequences. What follows is a soaring adventure across the skies, filled with talking dogs, jungle dreams, and the reminder that new beginnings can arrive when we least expect them.



<h2>Kubo and the Two Strings (2016)</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/spen/full/SPEN_20251112_SPEN_77038_Kubo-and-the-Two-Strings_cda0b1ad.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-77047"></figure><figcaption>(Source: IMDb)</figcaption></figure>



Laika’s stop-motion epic is as tactile as it is transcendent. Set in a mythic Japan, Kubo and the Two Strings weaves paper, memory, and music into a story about legacy and the courage to remember. Its handcrafted detail and emotional precision create a world that feels both ancient and alive — an art form meeting myth in perfect harmony.



<h2>Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (2018)</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/spen/full/SPEN_20251112_SPEN_77038_spiderman_4fda098f.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-77046"></figure><figcaption>(Source: IMDb)</figcaption></figure>



A revolution disguised as a superhero movie. Into the Spider-Verse shattered conventions of comic-book storytelling with its kaleidoscopic animation and kinetic energy. But beneath the multiversal madness lies a tender coming-of-age tale about finding one’s voice and belonging. It’s bold, fresh, and fiercely original — a cultural reset for animation and for Spider-Man himself.



<h2>The Tale of the Princess Kaguya (2013)</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/spen/full/SPEN_20251112_SPEN_77038_Kaguya_71597702.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-77045"></figure><figcaption>(Source: IMDb)</figcaption></figure>



Delicate as ink on rice paper, Isao Takahata’s The Tale of the Princess Kaguya is an elegy to impermanence. Based on a 10th-century folktale, the film unfolds with quiet grace, its hand-drawn brushstrokes pulsing with life. Kaguya’s fleeting joy and sorrow speak to the universal longing for freedom, and the pain of beauty that cannot last. It’s one of animation’s purest emotional experiences.



<h2>Ernest and Celestine (2012)</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/spen/full/SPEN_20251112_SPEN_77038_Ernest-y-Celestine_6bb21585.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-77044"></figure><figcaption>(Source: IMDb)</figcaption></figure>



In a world where bears and mice live apart, an unlikely friendship becomes a quiet act of rebellion. This French watercolor gem radiates warmth, humor, and charm, offering a story that feels timeless in its simplicity. Its soft hues and gentle rhythm recall a bedtime storybook, yet beneath the sweetness lies a subtle reflection on class, prejudice, and the quiet power of compassion.



<h2>The Lion King (1994)</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/spen/full/SPEN_20251112_SPEN_77038_the-lion-king_63c7116d.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-77043"></figure><figcaption>(Source: IMDb)</figcaption></figure>



Part Shakespearean tragedy, part operatic spectacle, The Lion King remains Disney’s crown jewel. Its sweeping animation and unforgettable score blend myth and emotion into something larger than life. Simba’s arc — from innocence to loss to renewal — mirrors every cycle of growth. Decades later, the sun still rises on this African savannah, and its roar still echoes across generations.



<h2>The Breadwinner (2017)</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/spen/full/SPEN_20251112_SPEN_77038_The-Breadwinner_e74fe429.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-77042"></figure><figcaption>(Source: IMDb)</figcaption></figure>



Produced by the team behind The Secret of Kells, this powerful film trades fantasy for raw reality. Set in Taliban-ruled Kabul, it follows a young girl who disguises herself as a boy to support her family. The Breadwinner is a testament to courage and storytelling as survival — an example of how animation can confront darkness without losing tenderness.



<h2>The Red Turtle (2016)</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/spen/full/SPEN_20251112_SPEN_77038_the-red-turtle_b85a497b.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-77041"></figure><figcaption>(Source: IMDb)</figcaption></figure>



A film without dialogue, yet full of conversation. Co-produced by Studio Ghibli and Dutch animator Michael Dudok de Wit, The Red Turtle is a meditative parable about solitude, love, and the cycles of life. Its minimalism invites reflection: every wave, every silence feels weighted with meaning. It’s less a story than a quiet breath — one that lingers long after the screen fades to blue.



<h2>Wolfwalkers (2020)</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/spen/full/SPEN_20251112_SPEN_77038_Wolfwalkers_c1cc9be2.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-77040"></figure><figcaption>(Source: IMDb)</figcaption></figure>



From Ireland’s Cartoon Saloon comes a hand-drawn howl of freedom. Wolfwalkers wraps folklore, rebellion, and nature into a luminous tapestry of line and color. In its forested world, magic and humanity coexist uneasily, echoing age-old tensions between control and wildness. With fluid, expressive animation and a fierce beating heart, it stands among the finest animated films of the 21st century.

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Some anime episodes hit harder than any live-action drama, leaving viewers completely wrecked by the time the credits roll. Whether it’s a heartbreaking farewell, a tragic twist, or a moment of pure emotional devastation, these episodes linger long after the screen fades to black. 



<h2>The Challengers — Made in Abyss</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="680" height="435" data-id="76767" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/spen/full/SPEN_20251108_SPEN_76766_AA1Jr2oT_8a1b079f.webp&amp;width=680&amp;height=435" alt="" class="wp-image-76767"></figure><figcaption>Source: IMDb</figcaption></figure>
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Nanachi reveals the heartbreaking story of how they and Mitty were orphans taken by the White Whistle Bondrewd for cruel experiments deep in the Abyss. Sent to the terrifying sixth layer, they suffered the Curse that twisted their bodies, leaving Mitty immortal but trapped in a painful, inhuman form, and Nanachi able to perceive the Curse’s effects. Despite years of trying, Nanachi could not end Mitty’s endless suffering. With a heavy heart, Nanachi asks Reg to use his Incinerator to free Mitty, leading to a final, sorrowful farewell that captures the deep bond and tragic fate they shared.



<h2>This Day × And × This Moment — Hunter x Hunter</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="680" height="435" data-id="76769" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/spen/full/SPEN_20251108_SPEN_76766_AA1JqODc_90b17462.webp&amp;width=680&amp;height=435" alt="" class="wp-image-76769"></figure><figcaption>Source: IMDb</figcaption></figure>
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In a dimly lit room far from the battlefield, the once-feared King Meruem spends his final moments not in glory but in peace, seated beside Komugi, the girl who changed everything. As the poison from his battle slowly takes his life, he asks only for her company, her voice, and her hand. She stays, gently playing their game of Gungi and whispering comfort until the very end. With Komugi calling his name one last time, Meruem passes not as a tyrant but as someone finally loved.



<h2>The Tale of Jiraiya the Gallant — Naruto: Shippuden</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="680" height="435" data-id="76768" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/spen/full/SPEN_20251108_SPEN_76766_AA1JqYey_13ac3d93.webp&amp;width=680&amp;height=435" alt="" class="wp-image-76768"></figure><figcaption>Source: IMDb</figcaption></figure>
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Jiraiya’s death stands as one of the most heartbreaking moments in “Naruto: Shippuden.” Outmatched by Pain, a former student turned deadly enemy, the Toad Sage dies alone after a brutal battle. Despite being fatally wounded, he holds on long enough to send a final message and name Naruto his true legacy. As he sinks into the sea, he finds peace knowing the story will continue, now led by his student.



<h2>The Ends of the Earth – Clannad: After Story</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="680" height="435" data-id="76770" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/spen/full/SPEN_20251108_SPEN_76766_AA1Jr0bh_25b9c0b7.webp&amp;width=680&amp;height=435" alt="" class="wp-image-76770"></figure><figcaption>Source: IMDb</figcaption></figure>
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In one of the most emotionally devastating yet cathartic moments in anime, Tomoya finally begins to heal. After years of avoiding his daughter and burying himself in grief, a quiet trip to the countryside and a lost toy robot lead him to a long-overdue reconciliation with his father, himself, and Ushio. When he sees her tears and hears her call for him, he chooses, at last, to be her dad. As he speaks of Nagisa and wipes Ushio’s face, it is not just a reunion—it is redemption.



<h2>Graduation Time — Assassination Classroom</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="680" height="435" data-id="76771" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/spen/full/SPEN_20251108_SPEN_76766_AA1Jr4Jk_802f59a7.webp&amp;width=680&amp;height=435" alt="" class="wp-image-76771"></figure><figcaption>Source: IMDb</figcaption></figure>
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The final lesson of “Assassination Classroom” is filled with sorrow, closure, and quiet gratitude. As Korosensei lies motionless, he asks his students to fulfill the mission they were trained for. Though overwhelmed with emotion, Nagisa takes on the burden, offering a smile through his tears before delivering the final blow. Korosensei vanishes in a soft glow, leaving behind only his clothes. The classroom falls silent except for the sound of weeping, as the students say goodbye not just to their teacher, but to a chapter of their lives they’ll never forget.



<h2>Right and Wrong — Jujutsu Kaisen</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="680" height="435" data-id="76772" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/spen/full/SPEN_20251108_SPEN_76766_AA1JqVAe_f1181707.webp&amp;width=680&amp;height=435" alt="" class="wp-image-76772"></figure><figcaption>Source: IMDb</figcaption></figure>
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Nanami walks through the chaos of Shibuya with his body broken and his spirit barely holding on, clinging to a memory of peace that feels a world away. There is no grand speech or dramatic flare—just a tired man who has given everything. When he sees Yuji and quietly passes the baton, it is a moment of deep sorrow and quiet honor. What makes his final moments so emotional is not just the loss itself, but the sense that Nanami had already made peace with his fate.



<h2>Tenko Shimura: Origin — My Hero Academia</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="680" height="435" data-id="76773" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/spen/full/SPEN_20251108_SPEN_76766_AA1Jr2ot-1_a22fccea.webp&amp;width=680&amp;height=435" alt="" class="wp-image-76773"></figure><figcaption>Source: IMDb</figcaption></figure>
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Tenko Shimura’s origin story is a heartbreaking glimpse into a boy whose childhood was marked by abuse and loneliness. Despite dreaming of becoming a hero, Tenko’s life is shattered when his Quirk awakens during a moment of intense pain and fear, causing irreversible tragedy. The devastating loss of his family and the trauma he endures lay the foundation for his dark path, making his story one of the most tragic in “My Hero Academia.”



<h2>An Alchemist’s Anguish — Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="680" height="435" data-id="76774" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/spen/full/SPEN_20251108_SPEN_76766_AA1JqR0b_0ffaa7b3.webp&amp;width=680&amp;height=435" alt="" class="wp-image-76774"></figure><figcaption>Source: IMDb</figcaption></figure>
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What begins as a lighthearted visit quickly turns into something devastating. When Ed and Al return to the home of State Alchemist Shou Tucker, they discover he has fused his daughter Nina and her dog Alexander into a chimera, all to retain his research privileges. Edward is horrified, overwhelmed by guilt and fury, knowing he can’t undo the cruelty. The image of Nina’s voice pleading from an inhuman form stays with viewers long after the credits roll.



<h2>Perpetual Time — Berserk</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="680" height="435" data-id="76777" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/spen/full/SPEN_20251108_SPEN_76766_AA1Jr4JT_1975d7a7.webp&amp;width=680&amp;height=435" alt="" class="wp-image-76777"></figure><figcaption>Source: IMDb</figcaption></figure>
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The final episode of “Berserk” delivers one of the most harrowing conclusions in anime history. As the long-foretold Eclipse unfolds, the Band of the Falcon is slaughtered in a nightmarish ritual that marks Griffith’s rebirth as Femto and the death of nearly everything Guts once loved. Powerless to stop it, Guts witnesses the abuse of Casca and loses both an arm and an eye in a scene seared into anime legend for its cruelty and emotional brutality. The episode closes not with comfort, but with vengeance, as a scarred and broken Guts steps into the darkness, sword in hand, to hunt the monsters who took everything from him.



<h2>Bye Bye Butterfree — Pokémon</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="680" height="435" data-id="76778" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/spen/full/SPEN_20251108_SPEN_76766_AA1JqVzE_557efbd6.webp&amp;width=680&amp;height=435" alt="" class="wp-image-76778"></figure><figcaption>Source: IMDb</figcaption></figure>
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Ash’s first goodbye hits harder than expected in this tender early episode. As Butterfree leaves to follow love across the sea, Ash is forced to let go of one of his earliest and most loyal companions. What begins as a lighthearted story about courtship turns into a surprisingly emotional farewell, capped by a sunset flight and a quiet moment of tears—both Butterfree’s and Ash’s.

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Get ready to set your schedules—or at least your 2029 reminders, according to Deadline—because the biggest pop group/supernatural fighting trio on Netflix is officially coming back! After taking the streamer by storm and becoming an undeniable global phenomenon, the animated musical adventure “KPop Demon Hunters” has finally confirmed its highly anticipated sequel is in the works. 



Fans of the hit movie, which follows the adventures of K-pop girl group HUNTR/X as they secretly battle soul-stealing demons with their music, are already buzzing about what new challenges and chart-topping bangers the next chapter will bring. While the distant release year signals a long wait for the meticulous animation process, the news is a huge win for everyone who fell in love with Rumi, Mira, and Zoey’s dazzling, demon-slaying antics.



<h2>Why the 2029 Release Date?</h2>



For an animated feature of this caliber, a 2029 release is a testament to the immense amount of time, detail, and artistry required in the animation world. Unlike live-action sequels, which can often be fast-tracked, major animated films typically take a demanding three to five years from concept to final cut. 



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" data-id="76591" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/spen/full/SPEN_20251105_SPEN_76589_Kpop2-1024x576_3cebac31.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-76591" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Source: Netflix</figcaption></figure>
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This extensive timeline ensures everything from the character models and elaborate set pieces to the intricate fight choreography and, especially in this case, the stunning musical numbers, meets the high standard set by the first movie. Given the global success and complex visual style of “KPop Demon Hunters,” creators are taking the necessary time to craft a worthy follow-up, promising an even more visually spectacular and meticulously produced adventure.



The original picture, produced by Sony Pictures Animation, was a surprise smash hit for Netflix, blending Korean culture, K-pop’s signature high-energy performances, and classic demonology themes. Its success turned the three fictional members of HUNTR/X—Rumi, Mira, and Zoey—into household names.



The creators have previously hinted at having more story to tell, particularly wanting to dive deeper into the individual origin stories and backstories of the members, which the first flick only had a chance to touch on. The four-year gap allows the returning directorial team, which reportedly includes Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans, the necessary runway to expand the world, develop the script, record new original music, and finalize the lengthy animation and rendering process.



The return of “KPop Demon Hunters” is more than just a sequel; it solidifies the property as a major entertainment franchise for Netflix. The first entry didn’t just top the charts—it became the streamer’s most popular movie of all time, spawning hit original songs and merchandise. This kind of colossal success puts immense pressure on the creators to deliver a follow-up that not only satisfies the existing anbase but also justifies the long-term investment. 



While 2029 feels a lifetime away, this extended production window is a calculated move to ensure that “KPop Demon Hunters 2” is a blockbuster event that lives up to the original’s legacy and secures the future of the series for years to come.

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Having already become Netflix’s most-watched original animated film of all time and on track to become the second-most popular English-language film on the platform, “Kpop Demon Hunters” shows no signs of slowing down—even two months after its release. Every detail of the movie, from its catchy songs to its clever nods to K-pop culture, has fueled a massive fandom that’s proving to be more than ready to support Huntr/x when it hits the big screen.



<h2>‘KPop Demon Hunters’ Prepares for a Box Office Takedown</h2>



According to The Hollywood Reporter, Netflix’s “KPop Demon Hunters” is set to make a major splash this weekend with a special singalong event booked across more than 1,700 theaters. 



The two-day celebration, taking place August 22–24 in North America, will also reach audiences in the U.K., Australia, and New Zealand, giving fans worldwide a chance to experience the animated hit on the big screen. Early ticket sales have been staggering, with insiders noting that 1,000 showtimes are already sold out.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/spen/full/SPEN_20250820_SPEN_72323_Kpop2-5-1024x576_2a65fa55.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-72327" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Source: Netflix</figcaption></figure>



This marks an unusual moment for Netflix, which has historically prioritized streaming over theatrical releases, sometimes putting it at odds with major theater chains. For “KPop Demon Hunters,” however, cinemas are lining up to participate. Regal Cinemas, Cinemark, and Alamo Drafthouse are among the chains hosting the event. 



Box office analysts are projecting that the singalong screenings could bring in anywhere from $5 million to over $10 million in North America alone. If successful, the event could give an otherwise quiet late-summer weekend a significant boost.

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It’s hard to recall an animated streaming hit that has performed as strongly as “Kpop Demon Hunters.” Released on June 20, the film has consistently held the top spot on Netflix’s worldwide chart, according to FlixPatrol. But that success is just one part of its impressive achievements.



The picture has already become the platform’s most-watched original movie of all time. In the United States, its soundtrack debuted higher on the Billboard 200 chart than any other soundtrack released in 2025 and is the first soundtrack this year to reach the top ten. Now, to keep the momentum going, Netflix is bringing the movie to theaters as a sing-along event.



<h2>Sing-Along Screenings of ‘KPop Demon Hunters’ Planned for Theaters</h2>



According to The Hollywood Reporter, “Kpop Demon Hunters” will be released in select theaters with a sing-along event scheduled across North America on August 23 and 24. It will take place for one weekend only, with screenings happening throughout the US and Canada. 



Fans won’t want to miss it — tickets become available starting Wednesday, August 13 at 6 a.m. PDT / 9 a.m. EDT. This special event is largely driven by the massive success of the film’s music, which has become a serious contender against real K-pop bands.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/spen/full/SPEN_20250812_SPEN_72046_Kpop1-4-1024x576_3ded2086.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-72047" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/29/2025/08/12115701/Kpop1-4-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/29/2025/08/12115701/Kpop1-4-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/29/2025/08/12115701/Kpop1-4-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/29/2025/08/12115701/Kpop1-4-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/29/2025/08/12115701/Kpop1-4-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/29/2025/08/12115701/Kpop1-4-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/29/2025/08/12115701/Kpop1-4-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/29/2025/08/12115701/Kpop1-4.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Source: IMDb</figcaption></figure>



The BBC revealed that Huntr/x and the Saja Boys — with their hits “Golden” and “Your Idol” respectively — topped the US Spotify chart. Huntr/x reached number two, surpassing Blackpink as the highest-charting female K-pop group, while the Saja Boys became the highest-charting male K-pop group in US Spotify history, surpassing even BTS.



“Golden,” the album’s second single, went on to reach number one on the Billboard Global 200 and the US Billboard Hot 100. In South Korea, it became the third song in 2025 to achieve a perfect all-kill on the charts. For fans who have been streaming these tracks nonstop, these screenings are the perfect chance to sing along loud and proud.

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