While all eyes are on the upcoming release of Toy Story 5, another Pixar gem is quietly making waves on Disney+. Hoppers, the studio's original sci-fi comedy that hit theaters in March 2026, has become a streaming sensation just in time for summer. As of mid-June, the film is the most-watched title on Disney+ in the U.S. and ranks second globally, trailing only a special preview of the next Toy Story installment.
Directed by Daniel Chong (We Bare Bears) and written by Jesse Andrews (Me and Earl and the Dying Girl), Hoppers features a stellar voice cast led by three-time Oscar winner Meryl Streep and rising star Piper Curda. The ensemble also includes Isiah Whitlock Jr., Sam Richardson, Dave Franco, Demetri Martin, Jon Hamm, Kathy Najimy, and Bobby Moynihan. The film follows a young inventor who discovers a way to communicate with a colony of intelligent, hopping creatures, leading to a heartwarming and hilarious adventure.
Despite being an original property without the built-in fanbase of a franchise, Hoppers performed admirably at the box office. Produced on a reported budget of $150 million, it grossed $388 million worldwide—$166 million domestically and $222 million overseas. It currently stands as the fifth highest-grossing film of 2026 in the U.S., though its rank will soon be challenged by the arrival of Toy Story 5 and the horror hit Obsession from Focus Features.
Critics have embraced Hoppers with open arms. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film boasts a stellar 94% approval rating from critics and a 93% audience score. In his review for Collider, Ross Bonaime gave it an 8/10, calling it one of Pixar's "funniest movies yet" and noting that "after 30 years and 30 films, Pixar still hasn't managed to lose its magic." The film's success on streaming underscores its broad appeal, especially among families looking for fresh content.
The timing of Hoppers' streaming surge is no coincidence. With Toy Story 5 set to blast into theaters on June 19, Disney+ subscribers are diving into Pixar's latest original to tide them over. The sequel brings back beloved voices like Tom Hanks (Woody), Tim Allen (Buzz), and Joan Cusack (Jessie), along with newcomers Greta Lee, Craig Robinson, Conan O'Brien, and Ernie Hudson. It's the second Pixar release of 2026, following Hoppers, and expectations are sky-high after The Super Mario Galaxy Movie's billion-dollar success.
For those who missed Hoppers in theaters, now is the perfect time to catch up. The film's blend of sci-fi whimsy and emotional depth is classic Pixar, and its streaming dominance proves that original storytelling still has a place in a franchise-driven world. As one of the most charming animated films of the year, it's a must-watch for anyone craving a dose of cinematic joy.
If you're looking for more streaming sensations, check out Channing Tatum's 'Roofman' Becomes a Sleeper Hit on Paramount+ in June 2026 or Tom Hardy's 'Taboo' Becomes June 2026's Streaming Sensation. And for more family-friendly fun, explore The Best Family Movie Climaxes, Ranked.
