Amy Poehler Shines Again in ‘Inside Out 2′: Disney and Pixar Break the Box Office

On June 17, Disney Entertainment co-chairman Alan Bergman celebrated as Inside Out 2, Pixar’s newest hit, broke the box office curse. The film, starring Amy Poehler as Joy, has not only warmed the hearts of audiences but also garnered rave reviews from critics. The story continues with Riley now navigating her teenage years and a new array of emotions.

Inside Out 2 didn’t just bank on the familiarity of the first film but successfully targeted a diverse demographic. Walt Disney Studios’ newly promoted EVP of marketing, Martha Morrison, led a standout campaign. “We knew everyone relates to the chaos of turning 13,” Morrison noted. The strategy paid off handsomely, leading to a historic opening of $154.2 million domestically and strong overseas numbers nearing $300 million.

This film’s appeal reached beyond traditional audiences. Latinos, who made up 38% of viewers, played a crucial role in the film’s success, demonstrating the movie’s broad reach. Disney’s tailored marketing efforts included integrations with Univision and Telemundo and special events across Latin America. In Mexico, the film had an impressive start, earning $30.2 million, making it the second-biggest debut there of all time.

Moreover, the nostalgia factor contributed significantly to the film’s performance. Disney’s unique promotion, featuring Joy and Sadness visiting select theaters, was a first for the studio and resonated well with young adults who grew up with the original movie. This approach helped drive impressive attendance figures, with one survey showing nearly 40% of viewers were between ages 18 and 34.

“The impact of Inside Out 2 on Pixar and the broader movie industry is monumental,” said Comscore’s chief analyst Paul Dergarabedian. As the first major hit of 2024, this film is not just a box office champion but also a beacon of hope for theaters.

What are your thoughts on Inside Out 2 breaking records and how Disney’s marketing strategies reached new heights? Share your opinions in the comments below and join the conversation!

Source: [Pamela McClintock](https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/inside-out-2-broke-hollywood-box-office-curse-1235926505/)