Disney Says Live-Action Moana Unprofitable Despite $263 Million Box Office
Disney's latest earnings report recognizes that the live-action Moana film is not profitable, with global box office of $263 million against a $250 million production budget plus marketing costs. The Mandalorian & Grogu ended its theatrical run with $345 million in box office on a $165 million production cost, making it the lowest-grossing live-action Star Wars film despite a higher margin. Disney said merchandise sales partially offset the box office gap and that IP investments create value beyond theaters, citing healthy retail growth for Star Wars.
Disney's latest earnings report admits that the live-action adaptation of Moana is not profitable. The film grossed $263 million worldwide against a production budget of $250 million, with additional marketing costs further deepening the loss. However, merchandise sales partially offset the box office shortfall. The Mandalorian & Grogu concluded its theatrical run with $345 million in global box office, on a production cost of $165 million. While its profit margin was higher than that of Moana, it remains the lowest-grossing live-action Star Wars film. In its earnings statement, Disney said investments in these franchise IP also create value beyond theatrical releases. The Mandalorian & Grogu drove healthy growth in Star Wars retail sales during the quarter. The franchise now encompasses three films, an EPCOT theme park area, and a large global merchandise business.
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