Disney Animation's "Moana 2", originally planned for a direct release on Disney+, was later redirected to cinemas by Disney Co-Chairman Alan Bergman and is now set to arrive on the streaming platform on March 12. This follows a theatrical run spanning 105 days.

The sequel emerged after Disney recognised the popularity of the original film on its streaming service, prompting the company to upscale "Moana 2" to the theatrical market, where it garnered a domestic box office of $458.8 million and reached a global collection of $1.05 billion. 

The remarkable theatrical performance has reignited interest in the franchise, significantly boosting its presence across Disney's theme parks, merchandise lines, and ensuring its continued appeal to new generations. 

The decision highlights Disney's strategic shift back towards theatrical exclusivity, a notable change from its earlier pandemic-era experiments with simultaneous digital and cinema releases, including films like "Jungle Cruise", "Cruella", and "Black Widow", clearly indicating the profitability lies with the big screen.

"Moana 2" ranked third among the highest-grossing animated films of 2024, becoming only the fourth Walt Disney Animation Studios movie to surpass the billion-dollar milestone, following hits like "Frozen", "Zootopia", and "Frozen 2".

The sequel concluded by hinting at the possibility of a third installment. Stars Dwayne Johnson and Auli'i Cravalho reprised their roles in the film. 

Johnson is also set to return as the demigod Maui in Disney's upcoming live-action adaptation of "Moana", slated for theatrical release on July 10, 2026.

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Powered by blockbusters such as "Moana 2", "Inside Out 2", "Mufasa", "Deadpool & Wolverine", and "Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes", Disney crossed the $5.46 billion mark globally in 2024, becoming the first major studio to achieve this feat since 2019.