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

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 (unlockedmagic.com/?utm_source=partner&utm_…).

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