The Thanksgiving box office witnessed an unprecedented surge in 2024, breaking records and reinvigorating the film industry after a period of uncertainty. Moana 2, Disney's highly-anticipated animated sequel, was the reason for this after captivating audiences and demonstrating family-friendly entertainment at its peak.
Moana 2 Makes History
Moana 2 dominated the Thanksgiving weekend, raking in a record-shattering $221 million in U.S. ticket sales over the five-day holiday stretch. This monumental success surpasses the previous Thanksgiving record of $125 million, held by Frozen II since 2019.
The film's performance also exceeded early predictions, which had projected a $175 million gross based on its Thanksgiving Day earnings.
Moana 2's global ticket sales reached an impressive $386 million, proof of the film's worldwide appeal. This success can be attributed to several factors, including the popularity of the original Moana, effective marketing, and positive reviews. The film's strong performance also reminds the whole world of Disney's ability to consistently deliver high-quality animated features that resonate with audiences of all ages.
A Thanksgiving Box Office Feast
Moana 2's triumph was part of a larger trend that saw the Thanksgiving box office reach unprecedented heights. Along with Wicked and Gladiator II, the three films generated a combined total of nearly $420 million, setting a new record for the best Thanksgiving box office week in history. This figure surpasses the previous record of $315 million set in 2018, and significantly outperforms the $125 million earned in 2023.
Wicked movie, the musical adaptation starring Ariana Grande, continued to enchant audiences, adding $117.5 million to its domestic total over the Thanksgiving weekend. The film's success reflects the enduring popularity of Broadway musicals and the draw of star power.
Ridley Scott's Gladiator II contributed $44 million to the Thanksgiving box office, bringing its total domestic gross to $111.2 million. The film's strong performance demonstrates the continued appeal of action-packed historical epics.
The combined success of Moana 2, Wicked, and Gladiator II proved that audiences are willing to venture out to theaters for quality entertainment, particularly during holiday periods. The diversity of these films, catering to different demographics, highlights the effectiveness of counterprogramming in attracting a wider audience.
A Welcome Boost for the Industry
Moana 2's record-breaking success provides a much-needed boost to the film industry, which has faced challenges in recent years. The rise of streaming services and the lingering effects of the 2023 actors' and writers' strikes have contributed to uncertainty in the industry.
While overall box office numbers for 2024 are still lagging behind pre-pandemic levels, the Thanksgiving box office surge offers a glimmer of hope. Moana 2's ability to exceed expectations, even amidst industry challenges, highlights the enduring power of compelling storytelling and the draw of the theatrical experience.
Closing Note
Moana 2's record-breaking performance signals a positive shift in the film industry's trajectory. The film's success, alongside the strong performance of Wicked and Gladiator II, demonstrates the power of quality entertainment to draw audiences back to theaters. As we navigate the evolving landscape of entertainment, the 2024 Thanksgiving box office serves as a reminder of the enduring magic of cinema.