Projected Earnings for Moana 2

In a surprising turn of events, Disney's eagerly awaited sequel, Moana 2, is projected to rake in an astounding $60 million in its second weekend. This is particularly impressive for a film competing during the traditionally low-turnout weekend following Thanksgiving, a period often characterized by distractions from holiday festivities.

Historical Context of Box Office Performance

Historically, this time frame tends to see diminished box office performance, with the record-holder for the strongest showing in recent years being Frozen 2, which earned $35.1 million in its third weekend back in 2019. In comparison, Moana 2's estimated drop of around 57% resembles the original Moana, which saw a 50% decrease in its second weekend back in 2016, earning $28.2 million during that same period.

Implications for Box Office Rankings

This upcoming weekend also has crucial implications for Moana 2's standing in box office history. If it meets projections, it could easily surpass the previous record of $120 million for the first weekend of December, which remains unbroken since 2018. However, it will face competition from Wicked, which is expected to garner approximately $32 million in its third weekend, a substantial 60% drop, and Gladiator II, aiming for around $15.5 million with a similar 50% decline.

Current Box Office Standings

As of Tuesday, Moana 2 has banked an impressive $239.3 million in just a week, while its competitors have also seen sustained success – Wicked has accumulated $275.8 million overall, and Gladiator II stands at $116.5 million.

New Releases Competing for Attention

Additionally, new films making their debut this weekend will vie for attention. Pushpa 2 – The Rule, released by Prathyangira Cinemas, is already seeing promising advance ticket sales across 1,245 theaters. As a follow-up to Pushpa – The Rise, which premiered to $1.3 million in December 2021, it’s anticipated to perform significantly better, possibly crossing the $10 million mark.

Also on the docket is Y2K, an R-rated horror-comedy directed by Kyle Mooney, featuring Rachel Zegler. This film, launching in 2,100 theaters, is expected to collect between $3 million to $5 million. Although reviews have been mixed, the premise – centered around two high school outcasts causing chaos on New Year's Eve 1999 – has piqued the curiosity of young audiences looking for a unique cinematic experience.

Conclusion

With exciting titles in play and Moana 2 capitalizing on the holiday spirit, this December weekend could be one for the record books, fostering anticipation in theater-goers eager for escape through animated adventure. Will Moana 2 make a big enough splash to rewrite box office history? Only time will tell!