Moana 2 has made waves at the box office, becoming the third highest-grossing film of 2024 with earnings exceeding $1 billion globally. Released on November 28, 2024, the sequel has solidified Disney’s status as the leading producer of popular animations, following the success of titles like Frozen and Zootopia.
With its premiere strategically placed during the Thanksgiving holiday, Moana 2 pulled in $221 million within the first five days, setting new records for holiday earnings. This impressive debut reflects not only the strength of the Moana franchise but also its ability to resonate with audiences around the world. According to reports, the film has already grossed over $442.8 million domestically and $567.1 million internationally, placing it among the largest animated film openings.
Dwayne Johnson, who reprises his role as the demigod Maui, celebrated the film’s remarkable performance. “Can I get CHEE HOO!! THANK YOU with all our hearts as MOANA 2 achieves over $1 Billion in box office earnings. A global embrace of our Polynesian culture and A LOT of happy and hyped movie goers around the world,” he tweeted. Such enthusiasm highlights not just the financial success but also the cultural importance of the narrative.
The sequel continues the adventurous spirit of the original film, which followed young Moana on her quest to save her people. This time, she reunites with Maui for another ocean voyage, prompted by her ancestors. Critics and audiences alike have lauded the film for its character development and rich visuals, even as some have pointed to the need for continued attention to the authenticity of cultural representation.
Johnson emphasized the importance of representing diverse cultures. He noted, “Every day is a learning lesson for your culture, regardless of how much you think you know, or how much it has been embedded in your DNA.” This perspective fosters discussion about how films portray heritage and raises questions about the authenticity and accuracy of such representations.
The film's soundtrack, now composed by Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear, has sparked discussions among fans. While powered by new musical scores, some spectators reflected on the absence of Lin-Manuel Miranda, who brought unforgettable hits to the first film. The mix of old favorites and new tunes has received divided reactions, with fans showering both praise and critique.
Moana 2’s success holds significant ramifications for Disney, especially as it faces fierce competition from other animation studios like Illumination and DreamWorks. The substantial earnings from Moana 2 reinforce Disney’s command over the animation market and suggest bright prospects for future projects, including rumors of additional films within the Moana universe and live adaptations.
Vue International’s CEO praised the film's performance, contributing to the extraordinary Christmas season for cinemas. Tim Richards noted how such family-friendly films continued to pull audiences back to theaters, particularly post-pandemic. “We saw independent film production slow down...but titles like Moana 2 have helped rejuvenate cinema attendance,” he shared.
Looking to the future, Disney is already planning adaptations and sequels, showcasing confidence built on Moana 2’s success. The thrilling and engaging storytelling, combined with clever marketing and extensive audience reach, shows the film's potential as it expands the Moana legacy. This vibrant chapter not only honors Polynesian culture but also ushers new narratives and excitement for fans, young and old alike.