Universal Pictures’ animated sequel, The Bad Guys 2, has emerged as one of the most powerful box office stories of the year, racing past Disney’s Elio and cementing itself as a global crowd-puller.

With an impressive $156 million already earned worldwide, the film is firmly on track to hit the $200 million milestone in the coming weeks, making it a defining success for the animation franchise.


Released earlier this summer, The Bad Guys 2 picked up where its 2022 predecessor left off, reuniting audiences with the lovable crew of reformed animal villains turned antiheroes.

While sequels often face the challenge of living up to their originals, Universal’s latest entry exceeded expectations, thanks to a sharp storyline, fresh humor, and a visually rich animation style.

Industry trackers had initially predicted moderate success for the film, especially given the competitive summer box office lineup.

However, word-of-mouth, positive critic reviews, and repeat family audiences propelled the movie beyond forecasts.

According to global box office analysts, its strong showing is a testament to Universal’s growing dominance in the animation sector, driven by its collaborations with DreamWorks Animation.


The headline-making achievement is not just the raw numbers but The Bad Guys 2’s ability to outpace Disney’s highly anticipated release, Elio.

While Disney remains a titan in the animation world, Elio struggled to gain traction despite heavy marketing, ultimately trailing behind Universal’s hit.

Analysts suggest that audiences were drawn to the familiar charm of The Bad Guys franchise, which blends action, comedy, and heartwarming moments, creating a balance that appeals to both children and adults.

In contrast, Elio’s futuristic storyline, though ambitious, may have struggled to resonate widely with global audiences.



This latest success adds to Universal’s impressive streak in animated films.

Following box office triumphs such as Minions: The Rise of Gru and Puss in Boots: The Last Wish, the studio has built a reputation for delivering family-friendly titles that also have cross-generational appeal.

By leaning into witty dialogue, fast-paced adventure, and modern storytelling, Universal has carved out a space to directly compete with Disney and Pixar, whose market dominance has recently shown signs of strain.

Experts believe The Bad Guys 2’s financial performance will further embolden Universal to expand the franchise with potential spin-offs or television adaptations.


Social media platforms have been buzzing with reactions since the film’s release.

Fans have praised the sequel’s character development, with special attention to the leadership arc of Mr. Wolf and the comedic brilliance of Snake and Shark.

Many parents expressed appreciation for a family film that is as entertaining for adults as it is for children—a factor contributing to strong repeat viewings.

Merchandise sales linked to the film, including toys, clothing, and school supplies, have also surged, signaling its cultural impact beyond the big screen.

Analysts point out that this kind of brand extension mirrors the success strategies of other Universal hits like Despicable Me and Sing.


With box office earnings projected to reach and potentially surpass $200 million, discussions about the future of The Bad Guys are already underway.

Insiders hint at Universal’s willingness to explore a third installment, though no official announcement has been made.

Beyond film, industry experts expect Universal to deepen audience engagement through streaming platforms, gaming tie-ins, and expanded merchandise lines.

If the sequel continues its upward trajectory, the franchise could easily position itself as one of Universal’s most valuable animated properties of the decade.


The Bad Guys 2’s roaring success demonstrates the growing appetite for animated features that balance humor, heart, and adventure.

By outperforming Disney’s Elio and climbing steadily toward the $200 million mark, the film has not only secured box office glory but also reshaped the competition in the global animation market.

As the family film sector evolves, Universal’s bold storytelling and ability to build enduring characters suggest that audiences can expect more thrilling chapters from The Bad Guys crew in the future.