In 2016, Disney Animation enjoyed immense success with “Moana” and “Zootopia,” but the studio has faced difficulties in recent years with setbacks such as “Strange World” and “Wish.” Despite this, Bob Iger, Disney’s CEO, has revealed plans for sequels to both “Moana” and “Zootopia,” signaling a renewed focus on beloved franchises.
The announcement of “Moana 2” came as a surprise, especially considering that the sequel had been in development since at least 2020, initially planned as a limited series for Disney+. However, with Auliʻi Cravalho and Dwayne Johnson reprising their roles, the project has evolved into a full-fledged theatrical release, backed by Disney’s extensive marketing efforts.
This decision to elevate a sequel from the home market to a theatrical release mirrors Pixar’s successful transition with “Toy Story 2” 25 years ago, underscoring the potential for “Moana 2” to make a significant impact. Early impressions of the sequel’s footage, as shared by /FIlm’s Ryan Scott, indicate a high level of polish and promise, dispelling concerns of a rushed direct-to-streaming production.
Directed by “Moana” story artist David Derrick Jr., “Moana 2” features a musical score crafted by Grammy-winners Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear, in collaboration with “Moana” composer Mark Mancina and song co-writer Opetaia Foaʻi. While the pressure to match the musical excellence of the original film is evident, the potential for “Moana 2” to deliver memorable songs akin to “When She Loved Me” from “Toy Story 2” remains a hopeful prospect.
“Moana 2” sets sail into theaters on November 27, 2024. Here’s the official synopsis:
In Walt Disney Animation Studios’ all-new epic animated musical, “Moana 2,” three years since her first voyage, Moana is on an expansive journey in search of people beyond the shores of Motunui. Joined by Maui and a brand-new crew of unlikely seafarers, Moana must journey to the far seas of Oceania and into dangerous, long-lost waters for an adventure unlike anything she’s ever faced.
