‘Finding Dory’ Deep-Sixes ‘Minions’ to Become Fandango’s Top Animated Pre-Seller Ever

Pixar sequel is outpacing fellow weekend newcomer “Central Intelligence”

Finding Dory pixar
Pixar

“Finding Dory” is Fandango’s top pre-selling animated movie of all time, the ticketing company announced Thursday.

At this point in the cycle, the Pixar sequel, which starts previews tonight and officially opens Friday, has outsold the previous record holder, “Minions.”

Leading into Father’s Day weekend, “Finding Dory” is at the top of Fandango’s Fanticipation buzz indicator, with 98 points out of 100. Fellow opener “Central Intelligence” follows, with 83 points.

“‘Dory’ is Pixar’s strongest sequel since ‘Toy Story 3,’ and with so much love for the original film, it’s no wonder that ‘Dory’ is Fandango’s biggest animated pre-seller ever,” Fandango’s managing editor Erik Davis said in a statement.

“It will be a busy weekend at the multiplex, as moviegoers will also flock to ‘Central Intelligence,’ a buddy action comedy that will appeal to fans of Dwayne Johnson and Kevin Hart.”

“Finding Dory” is looking at a $120 million opening, which would beat the $75 million debut of “Zootopia” and make “Dory” the biggest animated opener this year.

“Shrek the Third” still holds the title of being the biggest animated opener of all time, having grossed $121.6 million on its first weekend in 2007 (that’s $139.6 million in today’s dollars, when adjusted for inflation).

“Finding Dory,” featuring the voices of Ellen DeGeneres, Ed O’Neill, Ty Burrell, Diane Keaton and Albert Brooks, opens against Dwayne Johnson and Kevin Hart‘s “Central Intelligence.”

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