Disney’s newest gem, *Moana 2*, has made quite the splash in the international box office scene, with exhilarating early results that are shaping up to be a defining moment for animated films. As the sequel dives into foreign markets, the figures are nothing short of impressive. From its animated triumphs in France to breaking records in Indonesia and Korea, the film is set to capture the hearts—and wallets—of audiences worldwide, setting the stage for a remarkable run.
*Moana 2* began its adventure by garnering an astonishing $8.8 million on its opening day across just ten international markets. This monumental debut positions it as the top contender in each territory it has launched. France led the charge with an opening day figure of $3.7 million, marking the second-largest animated opening in history, trailing only behind *Incredibles 2*.
This accomplishment becomes even more noteworthy considering that it was recorded on a non-holiday weekday, showcasing the film’s strong appeal and audience anticipation. Comparatively, the numbers reflect a substantial increase over the original *Moana*, which soared more than 300% higher in France alone. *Moana 2* not only surpassed its predecessor but also outperformed other iconic films like *Frozen 2* and *Inside Out 2*, reinforcing its status as a blockbuster project.
Impressive International Milestones
The film’s success isn’t limited to France; it continues breaking records across various markets. Indonesia emerged as a standout, achieving the largest animated opening day ever with $1.2 million. Such results demonstrate not just the film’s universal charm but also its keen market strategy, tailored to resonate with different cultures and demographics.
The figures are equally impressive in Korea, where despite facing the heaviest snowfall in over a century, *Moana 2* still gained a remarkable $1.1 million, ranking as the third-largest opening day for a Walt Disney Animation Studios or Pixar release. This speaks volumes about the film’s draw, even in challenging weather conditions, further solidifying its global appeal.
In Italy and the Philippines, *Moana 2* continues its winning streak with excellent opening figures. Italy recorded a $900,000 debut—second only to *Ralph Breaks the Internet* during a holiday—and the Philippines saw a $700,000 entry, painting a picture of widespread acclaim and interest in the sequel.
As *Moana 2* sets sail into its opening weekend, predictions indicate that it may surpass expectations, aiming for a staggering international box office total exceeding $100 million. The projections are bolstered by the phenomenal reception thus far and the strategic timing of its release in key territories.
Friday will see the addition of markets such as the UK, Spain, and China, which are expected to contribute significantly to the film’s overall performance and could lead to even more record-breaking figures. As the weekend unfolds, anticipation builds around how this sequel will ultimately fare against other beloved franchises.
Beyond just box office numbers, *Moana 2* serves as a beacon of cultural representation and storytelling. Drawing on rich narratives and featuring prominent voices such as Dwayne Johnson and Auli’i Cravalho, it embodies the values of adventure, friendship, and resilience. The initial success positions it not only as an animated feature but as a pivotal moment in cinema that showcases diverse tales in a vibrant, relatable format.
*Moana 2* is off to a remarkable start on the international stage, showcasing the franchise’s enduring appeal and potential for growth. As it progresses into more markets and continues to earn appreciation from families worldwide, it stands as a testament to Disney’s ability to create compelling stories that resonate globally. The journey of *Moana 2* is just beginning, and it promises to make a significant impact in the realms of animation and box office success alike.