Moana 2 Breaks Records at the Box Office During Thanksgiving Weekend

BuzzDecember 12, 2024

Disney’s “Moana 2” dominated the Thanksgiving weekend, achieving remarkable success at the box office. Released on November 27, the animated sequel earned an impressive $221 million over five days in North America. Fans eagerly reunited with beloved characters as Moana embarked on another thrilling journey across the Polynesian seas. The film’s extraordinary debut has secured its place as one of the most significant releases of the year.

Thanksgiving Weekend Sets New Records for Moana 2

“Moana 2” set multiple box office records during its Thanksgiving release. It achieved the largest three-day and five-day Thanksgiving weekend openings in history, outpacing all previous holiday releases. The film also broke the biggest Black Friday debut record, cementing its dominance during the holiday season. Internationally, “Moana 2” brought in $386 million, making it the second-largest global debut of the year and solidifying its worldwide appeal.

Moana at the box shatters records with a $221M debut.

Variety | MSN | Moana 2 set multiple box office records during its Thanksgiving release.

A Journey Back to Polynesia With Moana

The sequel returns to the vibrant world of Polynesia, where Moana continues her journey of self-discovery. This time, she is tasked with finding the mythical island of Motufetū, taking viewers on a deeper exploration of Polynesian culture and mythology. Auli’i Cravalho and Dwayne Johnson reprised their iconic roles, joined by a talented ensemble cast, including Rose Matafeo and Nicole Scherzinger. The blend of cultural authenticity and universal storytelling has captivated audiences across generations.

Box Office Competition During Thanksgiving Weekend

Despite its record-breaking numbers, “Moana 2” faced stiff competition during Thanksgiving weekend. “Wicked: Part One,” which premiered a week earlier, earned $80 million over the weekend, adding to its $114 million debut. Meanwhile, “Gladiator II,” in its second weekend, brought in $30.7 million, demonstrating its staying power. Despite these challengers, Moana 2 emerged as the clear leader, solidifying its dominance in the crowded holiday box office.

Disney Animation’s Most Successful Debut to Date

Moana 2’s success has earned it the title of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ biggest debut ever. This milestone surpasses previous Disney classics, showcasing the studio’s continued ability to craft captivating animated films. The sequel combines breathtaking animation, a compelling narrative, and exceptional voice performances to set a new benchmark for animated storytelling. Its success highlights Disney’s ability to create movies that resonate with audiences on a global scale.

Deadline | MSN | Moana 2’s success has earned it the title of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ biggest debut ever.

Moana 2’s Cultural and Economic Impact

Moana 2’s box office triumph highlights the significance of family-friendly films during the holiday season. Its themes of bravery, exploration, and identity resonate deeply with viewers of all ages, encouraging families to visit theaters together. The film’s stunning depiction of Polynesian culture also increases mainstream cinema’s representation, offering a rich and authentic portrayal of island life. Economically, the success of “Moana 2” underscores the resilience of the movie industry as audiences continue to embrace theatrical experiences.

A Story That Resonates Across Generations

The return of Moana underscores the power of storytelling to bridge generational gaps. The film’s heartfelt narrative, infused with humor and adventure, appeals to children and adults alike. Its combination of stunning visuals and a deeply resonant message has turned it into an instant classic. Families flocked to theaters during Thanksgiving weekend, making “Moana 2” not only a box office juggernaut but also a cultural touchstone for the holiday season.