Disney

This is now the fourth $1 billion hit the Mouse House has scored since 2024. Last year alone, Disney released three $1 billion blockbusters, including "Inside Out 2" ($1.69 billion), "Deadpool & Wolverine" ($1.33 billion), and "Moana 2" ($1.05 billion). It's also become the first studio to have at least three movies reach $1 billion globally since 2019.

It's worth noting that "Lilo & Stitch" was originally supposed to release directly onto Disney+ (much like "Moana 2" originated as a streaming series rather than a film). Rest assured, Disney won't be sending big IP straight to streaming anymore. It's also no surprise that the studio has already announced development of "Lilo & Stitch 2," which will undoubtedly be put on the fast track.

Disney has had its moments of struggle during the pandemic era, with the Marvel Cinematic Universe no longer the automatic powerhouse it once was. But at this point, it is quickly re-establishing itself as Hollywood's box office king. Sure, there have been some misfires along the way, including the massive flop that was "Snow White" and, more recently, Pixar's "Elio," which is poised to become the lowest-grossing release in the history of the storied animation studio. Still, the hits have generally outweighed the misses. No studio bats 1,000.

Now comes the big question: Can another film surpass "Lilo & Stitch" to become Hollywood's top-grossing movie of 2025? After a strong opening, "Jurassic World Rebirth" has an outside shot at $1 billion, but that's far from guaranteed. The best bet at this stage is James Cameron's "Avatar: Fire and Ash," which hits theaters in December and is also a Disney joint. But that will make the bulk of its money in January 2026 so, as far as the calendar year goes, another movie will need to try and step up. "Zootopia 2" maybe? "Wicked: For Good" perhaps? We'll see how things shake out, but for now, Disney has reason to celebrate.

"Lilo & Stitch" is in theaters now.