Disney’s Moana 2 Sets Disney+ Premiere Date After Billion-Dollar Box Office Success

Disney’s Moana 2 is sailing onto Disney+ on March 12, 2025, following its massive success in theaters. The highly anticipated sequel to the 2016 animated hit has become the third highest-grossing film of 2024, surpassing the $1 billion mark at the global box office. It now joins Frozen (2013), Zootopia (2016), and Frozen 2 (2019) as one of only four Walt Disney Animation Studios films to achieve this milestone.

A Box Office Powerhouse

Since its theatrical release on November 27, 2024, Moana 2 has been a dominant force at the box office, earning over $1.05 billion worldwide. The film’s incredible performance highlights the enduring popularity of Moana’s story and Disney’s ability to craft compelling animated adventures that resonate across generations.

The film’s success also reflects the strength of the Moana franchise, which has continued to captivate audiences with its breathtaking animation, heartwarming characters, and culturally rich storytelling. With its upcoming Disney+ release, even more fans will get to embark on this thrilling new voyage from the comfort of their homes.

Critical Acclaim and Audience Praise

Moana 2 has received glowing reviews from both critics and audiences, earning a Certified Fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Many have praised the film’s stunning visuals, heartfelt storytelling, and exciting new songs.

Critics have described Moana 2 as:

• “A fantastic voyage” – Brian Truitt, USA Today
• “Gorgeous” – Tommy McArdle, People.com
• “A joyous adventure the whole family will love” – BJ Colangelo, Slash Film

The overwhelming praise highlights how Moana 2 successfully expands upon the beloved original while introducing fresh, exciting elements that enhance the experience.

A New Adventure With Moana and Maui

Set three years after the events of the first film, Moana 2 takes audiences on an even grander journey across the vast oceans of Oceania. When Moana receives an unexpected call from her wayfinding ancestors, she embarks on a dangerous and thrilling expedition into long-lost waters. Along the way, she is joined by a crew of unlikely seafarers, including the ever-charismatic Maui, voiced once again by Dwayne Johnson.

The film is co-directed by David Derrick Jr., Jason Hand, and Dana Ledoux Miller and produced by Christina Chen and Yvett Merino. Their creative vision has helped bring this bold new chapter in Moana’s story to life, blending adventure, mythology, and personal growth into a deeply moving narrative.

A Stunning and Culturally Rich Soundtrack

Music has always been a key part of Moana’s journey, and Moana 2 continues this tradition with a star-studded lineup of composers:

• Abigail Barlow & Emily Bear – Grammy® winners known for their innovative and emotional compositions.
• Opetaia Foaʻi – Grammy nominee and original Moana composer, bringing his signature Polynesian-inspired sounds.
• Mark Mancina – Three-time Grammy winner who returns to create a powerful and immersive score.

The Moana 2 Original Motion Picture Soundtrack is already available on Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music, allowing fans to relive their favorite musical moments. The song “Beyond”, performed by Auliʻi Cravalho (the voice of Moana), has been nominated for a 2025 Society of Composers & Lyricists Award for Outstanding Original Song in a Comedy or Musical Visual Media Production.

A Commitment to Cultural Representation

In keeping with Disney’s dedication to cultural authenticity, Moana 2 has been localized into multiple Polynesian languages, including Hawaiian, Māori, Tahitian, and Samoan. The Māori-language version premiered simultaneously with the English release in New Zealand, marking a significant moment for indigenous language representation in mainstream cinema.

The film’s depiction of Polynesian heritage and traditions continues to be a source of pride for audiences worldwide, ensuring that the magic of Moana’s world is celebrated in an authentic and respectful way.

When and Where to Watch Moana 2

For those who missed it in theaters—or simply want to experience it again—Moana 2 will officially be available to stream exclusively on Disney+ starting March 12, 2025.

With its breathtaking animation, thrilling new adventure, unforgettable music, and beloved characters, Moana 2 is set to become another Disney classic that families will cherish for years to come.

Set sail with Moana once more—this time, from your own home!