‘Why Are Many People Unemployed?’: Moana 2 Achieves Record-Breaking Thanksgiving Opening Weekend Amid Industry Challenges

The Paradox of Success in the Animation Industry

For many, Thanksgiving weekend has long been synonymous with cinematic releases. Over the years, this holiday has seen the debut of beloved films including Toy Story, Frozen, and Coco, each generating significant excitement and box office success. With a tradition that extends nearly four decades, it’s no surprise that this year’s release, Moana 2, has created a whirlwind of anticipation.

Despite mixed reviews, Moana 2 shattered records this Thanksgiving. The film grossed an impressive $135.5 million in its opening weekend in the United States, outpacing even the beloved Frozen, which had previously held the top spot. These figures not only mark a phenomenal domestic performance, but Moana 2 also became the highest-grossing animated film for a worldwide opening weekend.

The Dark Side of Animation Profits

While these numbers suggest a thriving animation industry, the reality is quite concerning. In stark contrast to its financial success, the animation sector is experiencing significant turmoil. Following the release of Inside Out 2, which recently became the highest-grossing animated film of all time, Pixar laid off 14% of its workforce. This decision came shortly after the animation studio celebrated its latest achievement, leaving many who contributed to the film’s success without the bonuses typically awarded for major hits.

It’s a puzzling contradiction: the financial performance of animated films has reached unprecedented heights, yet the industry faces an alarming wave of layoffs. Animators, designers, and storyboard artists are now finding themselves in a difficult position, with many considering a shift to other career paths.

Shifting Industry Landscape

Major studios such as Disney and DreamWorks are increasingly relying on outsourced labor, reminiscent of trends in other sectors that favor freelance over full-time positions. This shift not only reduces costs associated with employee benefits and protections but also undermines the stability of the workforce in an industry already notorious for demanding work hours.

How is animation struggling so terribly right now? How are so many of us out of work? How is our art form being sidelined as worthless? I’M SO CONFUSED!!! https://t.co/KChRFLbqn7

— Lauren Faust and Furious (@Fyre_flye) December 2, 2024

Despite an uptick in industry profits this year, the reality for many animators is bleak, with rumors of possible strikes circulating as professionals grapple with the decision to remain in a precarious field. Recent negotiations between the Animation Guild and major studios have led to a tentative agreement, yet a pressing issue remains: animators are unable to opt out of allowing their work to be used in artificial intelligence training. This growing trend toward AI implementation raises alarming concerns about job security.

Animation kept the industry afloat during the pandemic, and now TAG members are losing their jobs because crews keep shrinking. As TAG negotiates with the #AMPTP, show your solidarity and share this post! #StandWithAnimation pic.twitter.com/5cAF0ntGuF

— The Animation Guild // #WeAre839 (@animationguild) November 22, 2024

Supporting Animators Amid Challenges

As a supporter of animation, you might wonder how you can make a difference during these challenging times. While enjoying films like Moana 2 is essential, actively using your voice to advocate for those in the industry is equally important. Leverage social media platforms to engage in discussions and raise awareness about the plight of animators. Utilize hashtags like #StandWithAnimation to show your support, and consider purchasing personal artwork from your favorite artists to bolster their livelihoods.

It’s crucial for the success of films like Moana 2 to translate into tangible benefits for the talented individuals who bring these stories to life, ensuring a vibrant future for animation as both an art form and an industry.

Source & Images