The popularity of the hit film Zootopia 2 has Chinese nationals choosing consumerism over nationalism. This is an interesting development as, according to Fortune, China’s relationships with other countries like the United States and Japan are increasingly tenuous.
Zootopia 2 Popularity
When it comes to where they spend their cash, it seems nationalist endeavors like supporting Chinese-made films/items aren’t as important as they once were. “Chinese consumers, especially urban middle-class and younger demographics, are not making everyday purchasing decisions based on nationalism,” Jacob Cooke, CEO of Beijing-based consultancy WPIC Marketing + Technologies, told Fortune. That sentiment extends in particular to Zootopia 2, as the film has become the highest-grossing Hollywood film in Chinese history.
Back in 2019, China asserted that it wanted to become a “strong film power” like the U.S. by 2035, according to Variety. This endeavor has not stopped moviegoers from enjoying foreign cinema, however. China’s weak economy and leftover anxieties from the COVID-19 pandemic have the public seeking more entertainment.
“People are watching Hollywood movies, especially cartoons like Zootopia, because they’re stressed out and just want something to relax themselves,” Shaun Rein, managing director at China Market Research Group, told Fortune.
It is worth noting that, although Zootopia 2 is currently the second-highest-grossing animated film of all time, the only film that has it beat is the Chinese-made Ne Zha 2, also from 2025. Ne Zha 2 has a box office total of $2.25 billion, while Zootopia 2 is still climbing at $1.83 billion, per Deadline.
Shanghai Disneyland introduced new offerings and experiences inspired by Zootopia 2 to the Zootopia land. From November 18, 2025, to January 27, 2026, at the end of the Hot Pursuit, Gazelle will perform “Zoo,” the theme song from Zootopia 2.
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