Moana 2's Thanksgiving Triumph: A Box Office Bonanza

Disney's Moana 2 has set the Thanksgiving box office ablaze, shattering records and capturing the hearts of audiences nationwide. The animated sequel, released on November 28, 2024, has already grossed a staggering $225 million in its first five days, with a global tally of $300 million and counting. This impressive feat has left industry insiders buzzing and eager to analyze the factors behind Moana 2's unprecedented success.

One of the key elements contributing to Moana 2's triumph is Disney's strategic pivot from a planned streaming release to a theatrical debut. The studio recognized the growing popularity of the Moana franchise and capitalized on its brand recognition to draw in eager moviegoers. This strategic move paid off, as evidenced by the film's record-breaking opening weekend.

Strong audience reception has also played a crucial role in Moana 2's box office dominance. The film's A- CinemaScore and 88% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes indicate overwhelmingly positive word-of-mouth, which has driven its popularity and fueled continued success. Despite a mixed critical reception, with a 66% critics score on Rotten Tomatoes, audiences have embraced the sequel's engaging storyline and captivating visuals.

The film's Thanksgiving release has also provided a significant boost to its box office performance. With families having more time to watch movies together during the holiday season, the timing has proven to be a critical factor in Moana 2's record-breaking run. As the long weekend comes to a close, the film is on track to surpass $400 million in total revenue, further cementing its status as a Thanksgiving box office juggernaut.

Moana 2's success has not only been a boon for Disney but also a wake-up call for competitors in the animation industry. With the Thanksgiving box office on pace to reach unprecedented heights, studios must now reassess their strategies and focus on improving their output and economics of their film studios. By investing in their parks and experiences business, animation studios can turbocharge growth and increase shareholder value in the face of Disney's dominance.



As the dust settles on Moana 2's record-breaking Thanksgiving debut, it is evident that the film has set a new standard for animated feature success. With a compelling storyline, fan-favorite characters, and a powerful marketing campaign, Moana 2 has demonstrated the enduring appeal of well-produced, engaging animated films. As the industry looks ahead to 2025, studios will need to adapt their strategies and innovate to maintain competitive advantage in the face of Disney's box office behemoths.