The animated movie industry continues to break records and Ne Zha 2 is the latest example. The 2025 Chinese animated fantasy adventure film directed by Jiaozi has shattered box office records grossing over $2.1 billion globally. As the sequel to 2019’s Ne Zha it became the first animated film in history to surpass $2 billion proving that non-English animated films can dominate worldwide. With Inside Out 2 also making waves recently it's the perfect time to look at the highest-grossing animated films of all time and where you can watch them online.
Ne Zha 2 (2025) – 2.08 billion
Breaking all expectations, Ne Zha 2 rewrote box office history by becoming the highest-grossing animated film ever. Inspired by Chinese mythology and the classic novel Investiture of the Gods this fantasy epic builds upon the legacy of its predecessor Ne Zha (2019) with breathtaking animation, heart-pounding action and a deeply emotional storyline. Released on Chinese New Year 2025 it dominated its domestic market setting records for the highest-grossing film in a single country. Its global success also made it the first non-English animated film to surpass $1 billion and $2 billion, further solidifying China’s influence in the animation industry.
Inside Out 2 (2024) – 1.69 billion
Pixar’s highly anticipated sequel to Inside Out became a massive hit grossing nearly $1.7 billion worldwide. The film revisits Riley’s mind as she enters her teenage years introducing new emotions like Anxiety and Embarrassment alongside old favorites like Joy and Sadness. Audiences resonated with its heartfelt storytelling, stunning animation and deeper exploration of mental health and growing up. With rave reviews and a record-breaking animated debut at the box office Inside Out 2 quickly became Pixar’s biggest film to date proving that the studio still reigns supreme in crafting emotional and thought-provoking animated movies.
The Lion King (2019) – 1.65 billion
Disney’s 2019 remake of The Lion King blurred the lines between animation and live-action utilizing photorealistic CGI to bring the beloved 1994 classic to life. While some debated whether it should be classified as an animated film, its stunning visuals, all-star voice cast (including Beyoncé and Donald Glover) and nostalgia-fueled appeal led it to gross over $1.65 billion. Despite mixed critical reviews it became one of Disney’s highest-grossing films demonstrating the power of reimagining classic stories for new generations.
Frozen 2 (2019) – 1.45 billion
The sequel to Disney’s Frozen took the Arendelle sisters Elsa and Anna on a new adventure uncovering the origins of Elsa’s powers. With chart-topping songs like "Into the Unknown" breathtaking animation and a darker more mature story Frozen 2 built upon the success of its predecessor becoming the highest-grossing animated film at the time of its release. Its $1.45 billion box office earnings solidified the Frozen franchise as one of Disney’s most profitable movies, keeping fans enchanted years after its debut.
The Super Mario Bros. Movie (2023) – 1.36 billion
Illumination and Nintendo’s animated adaptation of the iconic video game franchise became a global phenomenon. Featuring Chris Pratt as Mario Jack Black as Bowser and Anya Taylor-Joy as Princess Peach the film was filled with Easter eggs nostalgia and high-energy action. The Super Mario Bros Movie smashed records for video game adaptations grossing over $1.36 billion proving that animated films based on beloved gaming franchises can dominate the box office. With a sequel already in development Mario’s cinematic future is just getting started.
Frozen (2013) – 1.29 billion
Frozen was more than just an animated film—it was a pop culture phenomenon. Elsa Anna Olaf and the unstoppable power of "Let It Go" captivated audiences worldwide. The film’s mix of strong female leads, breathtaking animation and emotional depth led it to gross $1.29 billion becoming the highest-grossing animated movie of its time. It also won two Academy Awards including Best Animated Feature and launched a multi-billion-dollar franchise that continues to resonate with audiences a decade later.
Incredibles 2 (2018) – 1.24 billion
After 14 years of anticipation Pixar finally delivered a sequel to The Incredibles and audiences turned up in record numbers. Incredibles 2 picked up right where the original left off putting Helen (Elastigirl) in the spotlight while Bob (Mr. Incredible) struggled with parenting at home. With stunning action sequences, humor and Pixar’s signature emotional depth the film became an instant hit grossing over $1.24 billion. It remains the highest-grossing Pixar sequel and one of the most celebrated superhero films in animation history.
Minions (2015) – 1.15 billion
The yellow banana-loving Minions from Despicable Me got their own spin-off and it became one of the biggest animated hits ever. Minions tells the origin story of Gru’s loyal henchmen following their misadventures from prehistoric times to the 1960s. Packed with slapstick humor, fun references and Steve Carell’s return as young Gru the film grossed over $1.15 billion cementing the Minions as Illumination’s most bankable characters. Its success led to another hit sequel Minions: The Rise of Gru (2022) which further expanded the franchise’s box office dominance.
Toy Story 4 (2019) – 1.07 billion
The Toy Story franchise had already wrapped up beautifully with Toy Story 3 but Pixar delivered another emotional adventure with Toy Story 4. This installment introduced Forky Duke Caboom and a heartfelt farewell for Woody and Buzz giving fans one last nostalgic journey. While some questioned whether a sequel was necessary, the film’s heartfelt storytelling, beautiful animation and strong box office performance ($1.07 billion) proved that audiences still had love for Woody and the gang.
Toy Story 3 (2010) – 1.06 billion
Toy Story 3 remains one of Pixar’s most emotionally powerful films marking the end of Andy’s journey with his beloved toys. The film’s heart-wrenching farewell and themes of growing up resonated deeply with audiences helping it become the first animated film to surpass $1 billion at the box office. With a Best Picture nomination at the Oscars and over $1.06 billion in earnings it cemented its legacy as one of the greatest animated movies ever made.
How to watch the highest-grossing animated movies streaming online in India
From mythological epics like Ne Zha 2 to heartfelt Pixar sequels and nostalgic reboots, animated films continue to break records and push creative boundaries. Our guide offers you where to watch these movies after the long-running American sitcom. We also provide you with offers to buy, rent, or even watch these movies for free online. What film will be the next to join this exclusive billion-dollar club? Only time will tell!
