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‘Toy Story’  vs. ‘Minions’ Is the War Hollywood Wants

The marquee Pixar and Illumination franchises are up against each other this summer, but a look at previous face-offs suggests that a rising tide lifts all boats.

toy story 5
A still from the upcoming ‘Toy Story 5.’ Photo: Courtesy of Disney/Pixar
Scott Mendelson
June 16, 2026

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After weeks of chatter that YouTube zoomers might be remaking Old Hollywood, we’re on the cusp of a mid-summer set to be dominated by familiar I.P., including Supergirl, Jackass, Evil Dead, Moana, and new installments from the two most successful animated franchises of the past few decades: Toy Story and Despicable Me. Pixar’s Toy Story 5, tracking for a ~$160 million domestic debut, opens Friday, followed on July 1 by Illumination’s Minions & Monsters, which is headed for roughly $100 million over its Wednesday–Sunday opening frame.