Moana, that family-friendly flick set in ancient Polynesia, has taken an extraordinary journey. When it was released in 2016, it didn't achieve the blockbuster status one might expect. As reported by the WSJ, it didn't reach the billion-dollar mark in theaters and didn't win any Oscars. In fact, it was only the 7th biggest Disney film that year, with Finding Dory raking in more than double its total gross.

Moana's Streaming Success: A Tale of Wholesome Sing-alongs

Moana's Initial Box Office Performance

1: The release of Moana in 2016 was a bit of a disappointment at the box office. It didn't meet the lofty expectations set by some. Despite its charming story and beautiful animation, it struggled to attract a massive audience. This was a surprise considering the potential of the animated genre and the popularity of Disney films. 2: However, as time passed and the tides of streaming began to change the landscape, Moana found a new life. It started to gain traction on streaming platforms, and now, according to Nielsen estimates, it has been viewed for almost 45 billion minutes since 2020. This is a remarkable achievement and shows the power of streaming in bringing forgotten or overlooked films to a wider audience.

Moana's Steady Rise in Streaming Rankings

1: Moana's rise up the ranks on streaming platforms has been nothing short of steady. It became one of the most-watched movies in the US in 2020, 2021, and 2022. This consistent viewership is a testament to the lasting appeal of the film. It has managed to capture the hearts of audiences across different years, proving that its charm is timeless. 2: The fact that Moana is now the top movie on streaming last year and this year is a significant milestone. It shows that streaming services have the ability to transform a film's fortunes. Moana has become a cultural phenomenon on these platforms, with families coming back to it again and again to sing along to its catchy tunes.

The Broader Trend of Wholesome Sing-alongs

1: Moana is not just an isolated case; it is indicative of a wider trend. Wholesome sing-alongs are now the biggest movies on streaming services in the last 4 years. All of the top 10 movies in this category are family animated films, and an astonishing 6 of them are musicals. This shows that audiences are craving content that they can connect with on an emotional level and sing along to. 2: The success of Moana and other wholesome sing-alongs highlights the importance of music in films. Music has the power to enhance the storytelling and create a memorable experience for viewers. These films tap into our emotions and allow us to escape into a world of fantasy and joy through the power of song.