Disney’s highly anticipated sequel, Moana 2, has made waves across international markets with an impressive early box office performance. On its opening day, the movie grossed a noteworthy $8.8 million from the ten countries it was released in, immediately securing the top spot in each of these markets. With a global total reaching $66.3 million by Wednesday, the figures showcase the franchise’s continued popularity and Disney’s stronghold on animated storytelling. As audiences flock to theaters, the film’s appeal promises a promising trajectory at the box office, marking Moana 2 as a serious contender in the animated film landscape.
France, a key market for animated films, recorded the best opening day of 2024 to date, as well as the second-largest animated opening day ever, only surpassed by Incredibles 2. The film raked in $3.7 million, a staggering 302% growth compared to the original Moana and 43% higher than Frozen 2. Indonesia also celebrated a historic day, with Moana 2 logging the most significant animated opening of all time at $1.2 million. These milestones not only underscore the sequel’s significant draw for families but also highlight the strength of Disney’s marketing strategy in capturing the hearts of audiences worldwide.
The film’s performance reflects its ability to resonate with diverse cultures and regions, underscoring Moana 2’s universal themes of adventure, self-discovery, and friendship. In South Korea, the film overcame unexpected challenges, including a historic snowstorm, to generate $1.1 million, becoming the third-largest opening day for any Walt Disney Animation Studios release there. This feat of attracting audiences under adverse weather conditions speaks volumes about the sequel’s draw and the anticipation surrounding it.
Moana 2’s success is not solely limited to major markets like France and Indonesia. Italy and the Philippines also contributed to its impressive haul. Italy’s $900K opening day established Moana 2 as the second-best debut for any Walt Disney Animation Studio film, while the Philippines saw a robust $700K, the second-highest animated launch ever behind Inside Out 2. These figures illustrate Disney’s capacity to engage audiences across varied cultural landscapes, solidifying Moana 2’s status as a global hit.
Expectations for Moana 2 remain optimistic as further international releases approach. The film’s projected international box office opening is expected to exceed $100 million through Sunday, especially if the momentum continues. With anticipated openings in key markets like Germany, Mexico, and Australia, which are set to join the fray shortly, this number could rise significantly. Countries such as the UK and China are slated for a Friday release, broadening Moana 2’s reach and enhancing its global presence.
As international audiences continue to embrace the film, Disney is poised to evaluate its potential for a sustained run at the box office. This is vital not just for the franchise itself, but also for the future of animated entertainment, with successful sequels paving the way for innovative storytelling and character development in the genre.
Moana 2 is off to a splashy start, breaking records and captivating audiences worldwide. Its remarkable early performance in diverse international markets not only highlights the film’s appeal but also the effectiveness of Disney’s marketing strategies in resonating with global audiences. As more regions prepare to unveil the film, there is significant anticipation for how these numbers will grow. With its engaging narrative and beloved characters, Moana 2 is likely to remain a commanding presence at the box office for weeks to come. This captivating sequel could very well set a new standard for animated films in both domestic and international markets, making it a noteworthy entry in Disney’s illustrious filmography.