Ne Zha 2 and Avatar: Fire and Ash lead the box office race, but surprise contenders are lurking.

With a packed release calendar in 2025, the global box office battle is heating up — and Ne Zha 2 has emerged as the early frontrunner to be the highest-grossing film of the year.

Priced at 8/15, the much-anticipated Chinese animated sequel has been given a 65% implied probability of topping the global chart.

Hot on its heels is James Cameron’s Avatar: Fire and Ash, the next instalment in the iconic sci-fi franchise, sitting at 7/4 (36.4%).

The film is expected to dominate international markets, particularly in North America and Europe, and could easily overtake the favourite with strong holiday season momentum.

Disney’s Zootopia 2 follows at 12/1 (7.7%), riding on the popularity of the original and renewed interest in animated family features.

Marvel fans are watching The Fantastic Four: First Steps closely — the franchise reboot enters the market at 14/1 (6.7%) and could surge with positive critical reception.

“It’s no surprise to see Ne Zha 2 dominating early forecasts — the original broke records across Asia. But with Avatar’s global pedigree and Marvel’s return to form, we’re set for a fierce box office race,” said Dave James, odds analyst at Whataretheodds.co.uk. “Keep an eye on Zootopia 2 — it’s a sleeper hit in the making.”

“While Superman is further down the betting at 18/1, it can’t be ruled out. The character’s global recognition, combined with a fresh cinematic reboot, gives it real sleeper potential — especially if fan reception and early reviews are strong.”