As the film industry continues to recover from the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the upcoming Thanksgiving weekend is set to bring a resurgence in box office receipts, potentially marking a significant milestone for theaters. With major releases hitting screens, including Disney’s anticipated “Moana 2,” Universal’s adaptation of “Wicked,” and Paramount’s “Gladiator II,” industry experts predict that this holiday season could witness one of the most successful Thanksgiving weekends in recent years.
The importance of a robust Thanksgiving lineup cannot be overstated; it traditionally serves as a critical juncture for the year-end box office. “Moana 2,” which premieres on Wednesday, is projected to rake in an impressive $120 to $150 million by Sunday. The sequel’s connection to its successful predecessor resonates well with audiences, particularly families seeking holiday entertainment.
Meanwhile, “Wicked,” a beloved stage musical adaptation, and “Gladiator II,” a revenge saga featuring a seasoned gladiator, complement the holiday offerings with diverse genres that cater to a wide audience. Analyst Shawn Robbins from Fandango highlights this trio’s potential to create a perfect storm for movie theaters—an essential component in spurring overall ticket sales.
Historically, the Thanksgiving holiday has been a significant box office milestone, with previous years yielding impressive numbers. The last time the domestic box office surpassed $200 million during this period was in 2019, a testament to its importance for the industry. The record stands at $315 million from 2018, fueled by films such as “Ralph Breaks the Internet” and “Creed II.” This year, optimism abounds as analysts believe the combination of releases could push ticket sales well beyond that benchmark.
Paul Dergarabedian, a senior media analyst at Comscore, underscores the holiday’s role in shaping the narrative for the year’s box office results. He emphasizes that the outcome of the Thanksgiving weekend will significantly influence the industry’s perception towards the end of the year, affecting not only annual revenues but also the confidence of studios in releasing future blockbusters.
Disney has historically dominated family audiences during Thanksgiving with its animated features. However, recent years have reflected a downturn in box office returns for the studio. Following strong debuts for films like “Moana” and “Frozen II,” Disney’s more recent endeavors, including “Strange World” and “Wish,” have failed to resonate with audiences, leading to disappointing box office receipts. This year, however, there are signs that “Moana 2” will reverse these trends and reignite interest among viewers.
With a solid foundation laid by the original “Moana,” which saw enthusiastic audience reception upon its release, the sequel seems poised to perform well. The previous film has remained a cultural touchstone for families, and the excitement surrounding its sequel could easily translate into box office success.
As we look toward Thanksgiving, the enthusiasm among filmgoers is palpable. Families are eager to return to theaters for a festive viewing experience, despite previous dips in attendance due to pandemic-related fears. The inclusion of films appealing to various demographics—children, young adults, and nostalgia-driven fans—ensures broad appeal. Summer’s successful release of “Inside Out 2” indicates returning confidence in theaters, as it grossed over $154 million domestically and marked a resurgence in animated storytelling.
It is this intersection of eagerly anticipated releases and a growing willingness among audiences to return to theaters that might just lead to box office records this Thanksgiving.
In a season that promises exhilarating cinematic experiences, the Thanksgiving weekend could very well mark a renaissance for theaters. As “Moana 2,” “Wicked,” and “Gladiator II” synergistically combine their appeal, the potential for significant ticket sales and a revitalized industry narrative is substantial. Fans are eager, and the stakes are high; the outcome will not only inform the fortunes of the current holiday season but will also set the stage for year-end box office projections. The time is ripe for a box office revival, and audiences are ready to celebrate at the theaters.