Up until last November, Disney had dominated the Thanksgiving Week box office. But Strange World, The Marvels and Wish all signal a worrying change in Disney’s ability to win a very important cinematic week.
Looking into the last thirty years of Thanksgiving Week movie successes, one is struck by the number of times that The Walt Disney Company has owned the audiences. Now, however, with fear that Wish and The Marvels could combine for less than $100 million overall for this week, other studios may find an opening that was not previously there. For example, if Disney is weakened to this degree, what is stopping competitors from trying a Trolls challenge to the week. Why defer to Disney when they’re no longer controlling screens in the way they have for the last three decades?
Today, let’s examine the movies that have won the week in the past… and let’s pay close attention to the huge Disney stumble of last year and the one forthcoming!
- Frozen (2013): Thanksgiving is a time for warmth, connection, and familial bonds, making it a fitting backdrop for Disney’s animated sensation, “Frozen.” The tale of two royal sisters navigating love, sacrifice, and the power of familial love struck a resonant chord with audiences during this festive season.
- The Hunger Games: Catching Fire (2013): Thanksgiving often serves as a time of reflection on societal values and injustices. “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire,” with its dystopian narrative and themes of rebellion against an oppressive regime, found a receptive audience during Thanksgiving week, captivating viewers with its socio-political commentary.
- Moana (2016): The archetypal hero’s journey is a timeless narrative, and Disney’s “Moana” embraced this structure with a Polynesian twist. Released during Thanksgiving week, the film’s exploration of self-discovery, courage, and the call of adventure resonated with audiences seeking inspiration and a sense of purpose during the holiday season.
- Frozen II (2019): Building on the success of its predecessor, “Frozen II” continued the tradition of enchanting Thanksgiving audiences. The film’s exploration of identity, destiny, and the interconnectedness of all things echoed themes of self-discovery and familial bonds, making it a perfect fit for the Thanksgiving week.
- Coco (2017): Thanksgiving is a time when traditions and familial heritage take center stage. Pixar’s “Coco” artfully weaved a tale around the Mexican holiday Dia de los Muertos, exploring themes of family, memory, and the importance of honoring one’s roots.
- Ralph Breaks the Internet (2018): In the digital age, connectivity is a central theme in our lives. “Ralph Breaks the Internet” cleverly tapped into this zeitgeist, offering a humorous yet poignant exploration of friendship and self-discovery. Released during Thanksgiving week, the film struck a chord with audiences navigating the complexities of modern relationships.
- Creed (2015): Thanksgiving often symbolizes the passing of traditions from one generation to the next. “Creed,” a spiritual successor to the iconic “Rocky” franchise, brought a fresh perspective to the classic underdog story, exploring themes of legacy, mentorship, and the enduring spirit of determination.
- Rise of the Guardians (2012): Thanksgiving marks the onset of the holiday season, and “Rise of the Guardians” capitalized on this festive spirit. The film, featuring mythical figures like Santa Claus and the Tooth Fairy, offered a delightful and imaginative take on the holiday season, capturing the hearts of audiences during Thanksgiving week.
- Enchanted (2007): Bridging the gap between animation and live-action, “Enchanted” enchanted audiences during Thanksgiving week with its whimsical tale of a fairy-tale princess navigating the complexities of the real world. The film’s blend of magic, romance, and humor made it a Thanksgiving favorite.
- Mothers and Daughters (2016): Thanksgiving is a time for reflection on family dynamics, and “Mothers and Daughters” explored the intricacies of maternal relationships through interconnected stories. Released during Thanksgiving week, the film delved into the complexities of family bonds, resonating with audiences during this reflective time.
- Toy Story (1995): Pixar’s groundbreaking “Toy Story” revolutionized animation and storytelling. Released during Thanksgiving week, the film’s exploration of friendship, loyalty, and the power of imagination resonated with audiences, setting the stage for a new era in animated filmmaking.
- Home Alone (1990): The holiday season is synonymous with family, and “Home Alone” tapped into the universal fear and humor of being left behind during the festive period. This classic comedy, released during Thanksgiving week, became a beloved staple of holiday entertainment.
- A Bug’s Life (1998): Pixar continued to make its mark with “A Bug’s Life,” released during Thanksgiving week. The film’s themes of teamwork, resilience, and the power of individuality appealed to audiences of all ages, solidifying Pixar’s reputation for delivering heartwarming and insightful narratives.
- The Lion King (1994): Disney’s “The Lion King” roared into theaters during Thanksgiving week, offering a majestic tale of courage, responsibility, and the circle of life. The film’s enduring impact on popular culture and its ability to resonate across generations make it a timeless Thanksgiving classic.
- You’ve Got Mail (1998): As the holiday season approaches, romantic comedies often find a special place in the hearts of audiences. “You’ve Got Mail,” a charming tale of love blossoming in the age of email, captured the essence of connection and romance during Thanksgiving week, becoming a feel-good favorite.
All of these films seem to reinforce the overarching pattern observed among Thanksgiving week successes. These timeless narratives, spanning different genres and animation techniques, all share a common thread: a deep exploration of universal human experiences. They’re also almost always easily accessible for families. They’re overwhelmingly positive and warm. Whether through the magic of animation or the humor of live-action comedy, these films tap into archetypal narratives that resonate across generations, cementing their places as cherished parts of the Thanksgiving cinematic tapestry. As families continue to gather during this festive season, these films serve as touchstones of shared experiences, weaving a rich and diverse narrative that transcends time and continues to captivate audiences across the ages. Thanksgiving week, it seems, is an enduring stage where timeless stories unfold, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of those who partake in the cinematic feast.
We only now wonder if Disney will return to winning with the formula that worked for thirty years. The new one isn’t doing it.
For all the latest news that should be fun, keep reading That Park Place. As always, drop a comment down below!
