Here are 6 reasons why “Incredibles 2” will be the highest-grossing movie of Summer 2018 at the U.S. Box Office:
1.) It’s The “Incredibles” Sequel for God’s Sake
If you loved “The Incredibles” and have watched it numerous times, you’ve been waiting a staggering 13 and a half years, making it the longest time between an original Pixar movie and its sequel. The ’04 original, which earned 2 Oscars including Best Animated Feature, left on a cliffhanger with the introduction of The Underminer! We’ve all been on the edge of our seats ever since.
2.) Not Just for Kids
“Incredibles 2” won’t just be aimed at this generation of 7-year-olds, but those who were 7-year-olds in ’04. Teens, college students and adults of all ages will come-out to see “Incredibles 2” on June 15 as a curiosity factor.
3.) Lack of Animation in 2018
So far this year, there have only been three major animated films: two aimed at kids (“Early Man” and “Sherlock Gnomes” which weren’t financial hits) and “Isle of Dogs” for adults. This is the movie that kids just getting out of school for the summer will be flocking to, especially on opening weekend and over the Fourth of July holiday.
4.) Repeat Business
“Hotel Transylvania 3” opens 4 weeks later, on July 13, and “Teen Titans Go! To the Movies” is coming-out just 2 weeks after that, on the 27th. But if “Incredibles 2” is a really strong, quality movie, families could be coming back for a second or third time.
5.) Pixar’s Proven Track Record
This wouldn’t be the first time Pixar has won the summer box office. “Finding Nemo” took the season’s top spot in 2003. “Toy Story 3” beat-out “Iron Man 2” by more than $100 million to be No. 1 in Summer 2010. And 2016’s “Finding Dory” made more money than that season’s “Captain America: Civil War” and 2015’s “Avengers: Age of Ultron”.
6.) It’s a Superhero Movie
Yes, “Incredibles” will face some ‘box office total’ competition from this weekend’s “Avengers: Infinity War”. But let’s be honest, should that movie really be considered a Summer release since it’s opening in April? I think “Incredibles” can give “Avengers” a run for its money regardless of the season determination, but if “Avengers” is classified as Spring, there’s no question “Incredibles” wins the Summer Season.
MY PREDICTION: Look for an “incredible” opening weekend of $150 million and a total exceeding $500 million.