The cinematic landscape is poised for a revival as 2025 will welcome Universal’s DreamWorks Animation title, “Dog Man.” This animated feature is setting the stage for a family-centered resurgence at the box office, following the successful holiday releases of 2024, such as the anticipated “Mufasa” and “Wicked.” With an expected opening weekend grossing upwards of $20 million, “Dog Man” appears ready to capture the hearts of families once again, highlighting the ongoing demand for engaging children’s content in theaters.
Derived from Dav Pilkey’s popular Scholastic graphic novels, which boast over 60 million copies sold and translations in 47 languages, “Dog Man” has a solid foundation. Pilkey is not only known for the “Dog Man” series but also for the “Captain Underpants” franchise, which found success in cinematic adaptation with a 2017 film grossing $73.9 million domestically. The transference of beloved young adult literature to screen can often be hit or miss; however, “Dog Man” maintains the potential for success given its established fan base and familiar characters.
The narrative centers on the unique origin story of Dog Man, who is the result of a fused identity between a loyal police dog and his human partner following a workplace accident. This inventive premise not only brings humor and creativity to the plot but also resonates with themes of empathy and friendship, making it a fitting story for younger audiences. As Dog Man navigates his new role as protector while combating the antagonist, Petey the Cat, the film promises an adventurous blend of lighthearted antics mixed with moral undertones that parents can appreciate.
A Growing Interest in Animated Features
As families increasingly seek entertainment that they can enjoy together, the competition for their attention continues to intensify. “Dog Man” will see a wide release across 3,800 theaters, indicating a strategic push from Universal to capitalize on the growing trend of family films. The film’s marketing is likely aimed at mimicking the success trajectories of recent animated hits such as “Paw Patrol: The Mighty Movie” and “DC League of Super Pets,” both of which saw opening weekends in the $20 million range.
In a market where animated films have seen robust performance, the expectation is high for “Dog Man” to deliver both commercially and critically. Early previews are set to begin at 2 p.m. on opening Thursday, which aligns with practices that have proven effective for prior releases, helping to generate initial buzz and audience interest.
While “Dog Man” gears up for family audiences, another notable release is also set for the same weekend: New Line’s horror film “Companion.” This title presents a stark contrast to “Dog Man,” targeting an entirely different demographic. With a budget of $10 million, and an anticipated box office performance ranging from $8 million to $10 million, “Companion” will cater to horror aficionados. Its high critics’ rating on Rotten Tomatoes suggests that it may draw in a crowd. Boasting a young ensemble cast composed of Sophie Thatcher, Jack Quaid, and Harvey Guillén, the film promises excitement and suspense. Its unique narrative arc follows a character who wreaks havoc during a lakeside trip, demonstrating the diverse storytelling available at the cinema.
Both films aim to attract audiences under 35, albeit in distinctly different ways. The tension surrounding “Companion” lies in its critical reception and whether it can establish a sturdy foothold alongside the more family-friendly fare of “Dog Man.” Audiences’ preferences during this weekend will reveal a lot about current moviegoing trends and the varied tastes of contemporary viewers.
2025 stands to be a notable year for cinema, particularly in the family animation sector. “Dog Man” exemplifies a promising return to theaters for family-oriented storytelling, something that has seen a decline in the wake of last year’s holiday box office. Meanwhile, the dual offerings of animated fun and thrilling horror mark an exciting expansion for theaters, reaffirming their role as valuable cultural spaces for diverse movie experiences.