Walt Disney Co.’s Moana 2 has made an impressive debut, earning N106.4 million in ticket sales during its opening weekend across cinemas in Nigeria, according to figures released by the Nigerian Box Office on December 2, 2024.
This remarkable performance not only set new records but also secured the third-highest weekend box office earnings in the region for the year.
A Strong Start
The sequel kicked off with N12.4 million in pre-release screenings across 37 cinemas in Nigeria, signaling a strong reception even before its official debut.
Initially envisioned as a Disney+ series, Moana 2 transitioned into a theatrical release after Disney CEO Bob Iger decided to broaden the project’s scope. This strategic move has already proven successful, as the film heads into the holiday season with high expectations. Next up, Disney’s Mufasa: The Lion King is set to release later in December, adding to the studio’s anticipated holiday lineup.
The Legacy of the Original
Since its release in 2019, the original Moana has consistently been among the most-viewed titles on Disney+, thanks to its captivating music, vibrant island scenery, and a strong female lead. These features resonated particularly well with families during the pandemic lockdowns, cementing its popularity.
Tony Chambers, Disney’s executive vice president of theatrical distribution, highlighted the sequel’s success in reaching diverse audiences, including families and women. “In today’s market, a breakout hit needs to appeal to a multicultural audience,” he noted, emphasizing the film’s broad demographic appeal.
Strategic Marketing
Disney supported the film’s launch with an extensive marketing push. This included a comprehensive merchandise line, character appearances at Disney parks, and a star-studded premiere in Hawaii. In the lead-up to the release, both the original Moana film and promotional content for the sequel were among the most-watched programs on Disney+.
Behind the Scenes
Moana 2 was produced with a $150 million budget and directed by David Derrick Jr., Jason Hand, and Dana Ledoux Miller. It brings back beloved characters Moana and Maui for a thrilling new adventure set three years after the events of the first film.
The story follows Moana as she answers an ancestral call to explore uncharted waters in Oceania, joined by a diverse crew of seafarers. Grammy winners Abigail Barlow, Emily Bear, and Mark Mancina, along with Grammy-nominated Opetaia Foaʻi, provided the film’s musical score. Auli’i Cravalho and Dwayne Johnson reprise their roles as Moana and Maui, adding continuity for longtime fans.
Global Box Office Success
On Thanksgiving Day, Moana 2 set a new milestone, earning $28 million globally, nearly doubling the holiday debut of Frozen 2 in 2019. Within two days, the film had surpassed the five-day earnings of the original Moana.
This success demonstrates Disney’s ability to adapt its content strategy to evolving audience preferences. By opting for a theatrical release instead of a streaming-only launch, the company has leveraged the enduring appeal of the Moana franchise to achieve significant box office gains.
Looking Ahead
As the holiday season continues, Moana 2 is expected to maintain its momentum, solidifying its position as a major hit for Disney. The sequel underscores the continued strength of animated films in capturing global audiences and driving commercial success, further reinforcing Disney’s cultural and economic impact worldwide.
