Hoppers: Pixar’s Unexpected Sci-Fi Comedy is a Hit | Review & Box Office

“Hoppers,” Pixar’s latest animated feature, has become a surprising box office and critical success, grossing $186 million worldwide as of March 22, 2026, according to Wikipedia. The film, released on March 6, defied expectations, appealing to both children and adults, and quickly becoming a cultural touchstone.

The film centers on Mabel Tanaka, a 19-year-old animal lover voiced by Piper Curda, who becomes embroiled in a conflict with Beaverton’s Mayor Jerry (Jon Hamm) over a proposed highway overpass that threatens a local glade. According to USA Today, Mabel discovers a technology developed by her college biology professor (Kathy Najimy) that allows her to transfer her consciousness into a robotic beaver. This allows her to communicate with animals and attempt to save their habitat.

What began as a straightforward environmental protest story quickly evolves into something far more complex, and unexpected. The plot, as detailed in both USA Today and Wikipedia, includes elements of science fiction, political intrigue, and even dark humor. A reviewer described the film as “insane,” a sentiment echoed by audience reactions during sold-out screenings.

The film’s success is particularly notable given its unconventional approach to storytelling. Rather than shying away from the realities of the natural world, “Hoppers” confronts them head-on. A scene described by one moviegoer involved a robotic beaver, inhabited by Mabel, accidentally squashing a monarch butterfly, a moment that elicited both gasps and laughter from the audience. Another scene features an earthworm being consumed by a bird mid-conversation, a moment that highlights the film’s willingness to depict the often-brutal realities of the food chain.

The voice cast, which includes Bobby Moynihan as King George, a beaver leader, and Dave Franco, adds depth and nuance to the characters. Jon Hamm’s portrayal of Mayor Jerry is said to rival his iconic performance as Don Draper in “Mad Men.”

Mark Mothersbaugh composed the score for “Hoppers,” and SZA wrote and performed the end credits song, “Save the Day.” The film premiered at the El Capitan Theatre in Los Angeles on February 23, 2026, and followed with a release through Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures on March 6, 2026.

The film’s strong word-of-mouth hold, with box office sales down only 36% on its second weekend, suggests that “Hoppers” will continue to resonate with audiences for weeks to come. As of today, Disney and Pixar have not announced any plans for a sequel.