2024: A Landmark Year for Animated Films
The year 2024 has proven to be remarkable for animated films, with Inside Out 2 setting a new benchmark as the highest-grossing animated feature of all time. This sequel not only outperformed Frozen II but also amassed nearly $1.7 billion globally, claiming the title of the top film of the year. The success of Inside Out 2 was part of a broader trend, as four animated features made their way into the top ten highest-grossing films of 2024, alongside Despicable Me 4, Moana 2, and Kung Fu Panda 4.
Moana 2, in particular, continues to perform exceptionally well at the box office and is on track to join an exclusive club of animated films that have surpassed $1 billion in worldwide earnings. Currently, only eleven animated films have achieved this milestone, with most belonging to the Disney umbrella. However, one notable franchise has found substantial success outside Disney’s portfolio, although some of its films face challenges in the streaming space.
Upcoming Departures from Netflix: Despicable Me and Its Sequel
Important Notice: Leaving Next Month
Both Despicable Me and its sequel are scheduled to depart from Netflix shortly. The original film, released in 2010, introduced audiences to Gru and his three adoptive daughters, garnering $544.7 million globally. The follow-up, released in 2013, showed impressive growth but fell short of the billion-dollar mark, grossing approximately $975.2 million. Since then, two installments from the franchise have crossed the $1 billion threshold: Minions ($1.1 billion) and Despicable Me 3 ($1 billion).
As reported by What’s On Netflix, both Despicable Me and Despicable Me 2 will be removed from Netflix on February 1. This offers viewers a limited window to binge-watch these foundational films before they are no longer accessible. The future streaming plans for these films remain undisclosed, though they can currently be rented on Prime Video.
Insights on the Departure of Despicable Me from Streaming Services
What This Means for Fans
The imminent exit of the Despicable Me films from Netflix reflects a growing pattern on the platform. Netflix tends to cycle in blockbuster titles, like Dune and Transformers, for limited durations before they are removed. This strategy, while possibly frustrating for some viewers, might be designed to encourage audiences to check out new releases or catch titles before they are taken down. Although this news is disappointing for Despicable Me enthusiasts, it is plausible that viewer interest will surge as the departure date approaches.
For more information, see What’s On Netflix.
Additional sources: ScreenRant
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