When it comes to movies, many argue that the original is always better. The truth is more complicated. An analysis of the top 50 highest-grossing animated movies of all time shows that half of the most successful animated films are sequels.
However, originals earn higher Rotten Tomatoes scores than sequels overall. There is hope for original ideas; wildly successful classics like Up, Aladdin, and The Lion King have real staying power among the top 50 even without the list being adjusted for inflation.
Another original story, Coco, is the 16th highest grossing animated film of all time with $807,082,196. Not only is that a win for original stories, but it is also a win for diversity and representation in cinema.
Coco features one of the only four not 100% white human protagonists among the top 50. This needs to change, and original ideas can help create a more vibrant tapestry of culture and representation.
Infographic by: AAAStateofPlay.com
