Moana 2, the highly anticipated sequel to Disney's animated hit, has taken the box office by storm since its release on November 29, 2024. The film, which reunites fans with the adventurous Moana, voiced by Auliʻi Cravalho, and the beloved demigod Maui, voiced by Dwayne Johnson, has grossed over $359 million domestically and is closing the gap on this year's animated blockbuster, Despicable Me 4, which has brought in $361 million.
During its fourth weekend, Moana 2 raked in $13.2 million, marking only a 50.2% drop from the prior weekend. This impressive performance indicates not just solid audience support but also highlights the film’s staying power during the lucrative holiday season. The total earnings now stand at approximately $792.58 million globally, with about $433.41 million coming from international ticket sales.
Co-director Dana Ledoux Miller attributes the film's success to its vibrant animation, engaging characters, stellar voice acting, and catchy songs—a recipe for winning family-friendly entertainment. "I don’t think you can prepare yourself for what a Disney animated film response is," Miller shared, reflecting on her experiences watching enthusiastic audiences lose themselves in the storytelling.
The story of Moana 2 sees our heroine embarking on yet another oceanic adventure, this time seeking out a lost island submerged beneath the waves, which promises plenty of action and peril for viewers. The storyline incorporates rich representations of Polynesian culture, with Miller noting the film serves as “a declaration of the Pacific Islander worldview—this idea of we are all about community.”
After years of working diligently in the television industry, making her way from Hawaii to Hollywood, Miller's vision for Moana 2 transformed from what was initially considered to be developed as a Disney+ series to becoming one of Disney's flagship films this season. Bob Iger and Alan Horn, the heads of Disney, permitted the transition following positive internal screenings, and the decision has certainly paid off.
Moana 2’s animation quality and character depth provide a perfect blend of excitement and emotional resonance, much like its predecessor. The film's impressive animation has won over audiences once again, captivating children and adults alike. Critics have praised the vivid character animations and excellent voice characterizations let alone the charm and charisma of the returning voice cast. It’s clear why families are flocking to theaters; the sentimentality and depth of the story resonate deeply.
Paul Willistein of Lehigh Valley Press reviewed: "Moana 2 is superb. The characters’ animation is vivid. The voice characterizations are excellent. The songs are great." Such acclaim adds to the film's already solid standing and contributes to its momentum heading toward the holiday season.
Despite the tough competition from other major releases, Moana 2 continues to attract audiences and enjoys positive word-of-mouth, helping it inch past other films released around the same time. The animated film's overall performance is particularly noteworthy considering its recent loss of 400 theaters due to the introduction of new blockbusters, including Mufasa: The Lion King and Sonic the Hedgehog 3.
Moana 2's success can not only be chalked up to nostalgia; it’s also about the fresh themes and relatable messaging, which continue to garner support from diverse audiences. With the holiday season upon us, the film's gross is expected to climb even higher, potentially becoming one of Disney's all-time favorites.
The response to Moana 2 reinforces the importance of community and representation within animated storytelling, echoing sentiments of connection and identity. The film exemplifies the very essence of why audiences connect with stories—because they reflect shared experiences and provide familial and communal narratives.
With its box office figures nearing $1 billion and positive audience feedback, Moana 2 reflects both the cultural prowess and storytelling strength of Disney's animated productions. It is poised to be not just a seasonal favorite but also an enduring piece of cinematic art, continuing to touch hearts as it journeys through theaters worldwide. The success of Moana 2 is more than just numbers; it’s about the powerful celebration of cultures, the celebration of community, and the celebration of stories worth telling.
