Moana 2, the highly anticipated sequel to Disney’s 2016 animated hit, is set to dominate the box office domestically and globally. With pre-release buzz reaching a fever pitch, early projections indicate the film will deliver a massive opening, potentially breaking records during its Thanksgiving debut.
Record-Breaking Pre-Sales and Early Reactions
The sequel has already made waves in China, where it logged the highest first-day pre-sales for a Disney animated film since the pandemic, amassing $162,000 on the first day of advance bookings for the November 28–December 1 period.
Social media is abuzz with overwhelmingly positive first reactions to the film, further building excitement. The movie continues Disney’s tradition of releasing family-friendly blockbusters during Thanksgiving, a strategy that contributed to the original Moana collecting $82.08 million in its debut weekend in the U.S.
Impressive Box Office Projections
According to industry analyst Luiz Fernando, Moana 2 is expected to earn between $125 million and $135 million during its 5-day opening weekend in North America. On the international front, it’s predicted to rake in an additional $100 million to $110 million over the same period. With these numbers, the film’s global debut is estimated to fall between $225 million and $245 million.
This strong performance would firmly position Moana 2 among Disney’s most successful animated releases in recent years, signaling a triumphant return to the pre-pandemic era of blockbuster animation.
A New Adventure in Oceania
The sequel picks up three years after the events of the original film. Moana embarks on a thrilling new journey after receiving a call from her wayfinding ancestors. Teaming up with her old ally, the demigod Maui, she sets sail for the far seas of Oceania to break a curse placed by the god Nalo on the hidden island of Motufetu, once a vital connection for the ocean’s people. Along the way, Moana and her crew face challenges from familiar foes like the Kakamora and new adversaries, including the underworld goddess Matang.
A Thanksgiving Release to Remember
Set to release in theaters on November 27, Moana 2 is positioned to be a must-watch family feature this holiday season. With its compelling storyline, breathtaking visuals, and an enthusiastic fan base, the sequel promises to surpass the success of its predecessor and solidify its place as one of Disney’s top animated films.
All eyes are now on Moana 2 to deliver an unforgettable cinematic experience while making a splash at the global box office.