‘Moana 2’ and ‘Wicked’ Smash Thanksgiving Box Office Records

The Thanksgiving box office hit an all-time high this weekend, fueled by Disney’s Moana 2, Universal’s Wicked, and Paramount’s Gladiator II.

Combined, these blockbusters powered an unprecedented $420 million domestic total, smashing the previous 2018 holiday record of $315.6 million.

Making Waves with ‘Moana 2’
Disney’s Moana 2, the much-anticipated sequel to the 2016 hit, made an epic splash with $368 million in global earnings through Sunday. Domestically, the film brought in a record-breaking $221 million, shattering Frozen 2’s Thanksgiving weekend milestone of $125 million in 2019.

Reuniting audiences with Moana (voiced by Auli'i Cravalho) and Maui (Dwayne Johnson), the film follows their mission to break a curse and restore harmony to their island. Originally planned as a Disney+ series, the theatrical debut proved Disney’s knack for drawing audiences back to cinemas.

“If you create a movie that speaks to the heart, audiences will show up,” said Disney Entertainment Co-Chairman Alan Bergman at the film’s Los Angeles premiere.

Broadway Magic Meets Cinematic Success with ‘Wicked’
Universal’s Wicked, the long-awaited adaptation of the beloved Broadway prequel to The Wizard of Oz, enchanted theaters with $117.5 million over the holiday weekend. After two weekends, its global earnings soared to $359.2 million, cementing its place as a box office favorite.

‘Gladiator II’ Roars into the Arena
Paramount’s Gladiator II, the sequel to the iconic Oscar-winning film, rounded out the trio of blockbusters with $44 million in domestic earnings over the holiday. Globally, its total reached $320 million, showcasing the enduring appeal of epic historical dramas.

A Boost for Hollywood and Cinemas
The Thanksgiving box office surge delivered a much-needed win for Hollywood and theaters, which have faced challenges from the COVID-19 pandemic and industry strikes. AMC and Cineworld, among others, celebrated a packed schedule that drew audiences in droves.

“This weekend has reignited momentum,” said Paul Dergarabedian, senior analyst at Comscore. “With major December releases on the horizon, the industry is set to close 2024 on a high note.”

Upcoming blockbusters like Kraven the Hunter, Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim, Sonic the Hedgehog 3, and Mufasa: The Lion King promise to keep audiences flocking to theaters, making this holiday season one for the books.

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