The Jim Hill Media Podcast Network

Inside the Animation Money Machine: Zootopia 2, Frozen Paydays & the New Economics of Disney Franchises (Ep. 334)

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As Jim Hill and Drew Taylor sit down just hours before Zootopia 2 preview screenings begin, they dig into the film’s early reactions, the surprising box-office shape of the holiday season, and the escalating economics behind today’s animated franchises.

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Early reactions to Zootopia 2 and what Drew learned from scoring sessions and long-lead press days.
  • How Wicked: For Good outpaced the original film’s opening—and why reviews may complicate the long-term outlook.
  • Stephen Schwartz’s long history with animation—from Pocahontas to The Prince of Egypt—and his record-breaking opening weekend.
  • A surprise Thanksgiving return for Prep & Landing and why Snowball Protocol deserved more promotion.
  • Drew breaks down the blockbuster salaries behind Frozen 3 and 4—and how favored-nations deals shaped the cast’s negotiations.
  • Tim Allen completes his Toy Story 5 recording, plus a look back at the franchise’s evolving pay scale.
  • Trailer talk: David, Hoppers, and what Pixar’s 2026 slate signals for the studio.

    • Hosts

    Jim Hill — X/Twitter: @JimHillMedia | Instagram: @JimHillMedia | Website: jimhillmedia.com

    Drew Taylor — X/Twitter: @DrewTailored | Instagram: @drewtailored | Website: drewtaylor.work
    Follow Us

    Facebook: @JimHillMediaNews

    YouTube: @jimhillmedia
    TikTok: @jimhillmedia
    Producer Credits
    Edited by Dave Grey
    Produced by Eric Hersey
    Sponsor
    This episode is brought to you by Unlocked Magic, from the team at DVC Rental Store — offering discounted Disney theme park tickets, including special events. Save on your next trip at UnlockedMagic.com.

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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