Prepare to set sail for a life-changing journey with the fearless and powerful Moana and the larger-than-life demigod Maui in Moana 2, the latest Walt Disney Studios movie, released during Thanksgiving. Why has it been such a hit? 

First and foremost, it has been a hit primarily because it came out during the Thanksgiving break. It must be said, along with Wicked and Gladiator 2, it created a golden trio earning a total of $420 million, which was the "biggest Thanksgiving of all time in terms of domestic holiday revenue," according to The Hollywood Reporter.

With regards to Moana 2 specifically, the film has also been successful in terms of box office worldwide, earning $439,510,185 as of this writing. Auliʻi Cravalho and Dwayne Johnson's voices also play a crucial role as the protagonists in this saga of friendly characters who journey into a larger truth to their lives.

Besides the fact that Moana 2 came out on Thanksgiving, another very likely reason for its success is the music. Some of Moana 2's songs can be on the corny side but are also empowering to young audiences. For example, Maui's "Can I Get a Chee Hoo?" says in the chorus:

“Who are ya? Who arе ya? Who are ya gonna be?

You're gonna, you're gonna a-make some history

Come on, Moana, go get your destiny."

The song is catchy, surprising, and motivational. Other powerful songs, like "Beyond", have depth and emphasize Moana's journey, echoing Moana's "How Far I'll Go", sung by Cravalho in the first movie from 2016. Music is essential to telling Moana's story and is key to its success.

But it's not only the music that makes it a success. The story is about meeting ancestors, family, and friend bonds, and about Moana, the young girl from the ancient island Motunui whose journey leads her and her friends toward challenges to fight. This story has enchanted the public because it connects with family, the emotions that awaken us, and nostalgia for the first Moana film from 8 years ago. It is a story that almost everyone can identify with.

Animated movies tell complex stories simply and in a lively way. These movies show that not only children can watch them; adults can dive into the magic of being a kid again. In Moana 2, the protagonist embarks on a life-changing and horizon-expanding journey with her friends, finding difficulties, overcoming them, and then sailing into "what lies beyond. " Being released on Thanksgiving, the music and plot make Moana 2 a fabulous, successful sequel. Don't miss it!