‘Moana 2’ Surges Past $600 Million in Global Box Office

In a stunning achievement, Disney's animated sequel, “Moana 2,” has soared to $600 million in global ticket sales within just two weeks of its release, making it the sixth-biggest movie of the year so far. Originally intended as a TV series, the decision to pivot to a theatrical release has paid off handsomely for Disney.

The film has garnered an impressive balance of success in both domestic and international markets, with $300 million each from overseas and the United States. As “Moana 2” continues its strong performance, it is poised to eclipse the total lifetime earnings of its predecessor, the beloved 2016 film “Moana,” which racked up $643 million globally.

During the latest weekend box office update, "Moana 2" added a formidable $103.5 million from 52 international markets and secured $52 million from North American ticket sales. France has emerged as the top international market for the film, raking in $32.5 million, followed by the United Kingdom at $27.2 million, Germany with $19.7 million, and Mexico with $19.1 million.

‘Lord of the Rings: War of the Rohirrim’ Struggles

In stark contrast, the new animated fantasy release from Warner Bros., "The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim," debuted with a disappointing $2 million across 3,410 screens in 31 territories. This prequel, set 183 years before Peter Jackson's iconic "Lord of the Rings" trilogy, will expand its audience as it opens in North America and an additional 42 offshore markets on December 13. So far, Spain has led its earnings with $347,000, trailed by Mexico at $239,000 and Thailand at $146,000.

Other Box Office Contenders

Another notable contender at the box office, Universal's cinematic adaptation of "Wicked," has crossed the $400 million mark globally, which includes $135 million overseas and $320 million domestically. Despite adding $26 million from 79 international markets, its debut in China was underwhelming, with only $1.2 million from 8,900 screens.

Meanwhile, "Gladiator II," a sequel that's been 25 years in the making, continues to gain traction, with the film bringing in $17 million in its fourth weekend, raising its overseas total to $235 million and its global earnings to $368.4 million. The film's hefty budget, exceeding $250 million for production and over $100 million for marketing, means it heavily relies on international audiences for profitability.

Additionally, the holiday-themed action comedy "Red One," featuring Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson as Santa's head of security, achieved $3.5 million from 4,000 screens across 75 international markets, accumulating $78.2 million from abroad and a total of $164 million worldwide. The movie, which was initially aimed at streaming platforms, is viewed as a win for theaters, especially given its $250 million budget prior to marketing expenses.

Looking Ahead

Following these developments, all eyes will be on the upcoming weeks as holiday releases and new titles hit theaters, promising shifts in the cinematic landscape this holiday season!