Moana fans, rejoice! Disney has announced that Moana 2, the sequel to the beloved 2016 animated film, will be released in theaters on November 27th, 2024.
The news came as a surprise, as the sequel was not previously announced or expected by the public. In fact, Moana 2 was initially developed as a TV series for Disney+, but the studio was so impressed by the footage that it decided to turn it into a cinematic follow-up.
The sequel will be an “expansive new voyage with Moana, Maui and a brand-new crew of unlikely seafarers”, according to Disney. The film’s description reads: “After receiving an unexpected call from her wayfinding ancestors, Moana must journey to the far seas of Oceania and into dangerous, long-lost waters for an adventure unlike anything she’s ever faced.”
The original voice cast, including Auli’i Cravalho as Moana and Dwayne Johnson as Maui, will reprise their roles in the sequel. The film will also feature new songs written by Abigail Barlow, Emily Bear, Opetaia Foa’i and Mark Mancina. Foa’i and Mancina worked on the first film’s songs with the Hamilton creator, Lin-Manuel Miranda.
Moana 2 is directed by Dave Derrick Jr, who worked on the original film as a storyboard artist, and will be the latest in a series of sequels and spin-offs that Disney has been developing for its popular animated films.
Additionally, this is not the only project that Disney has in the works. The studio is also planning a live-action remake of Moana, starring Dwayne Johnson as Maui. The live-action film will be released in 2025, and will feature music and dance inspired by the Polynesian culture.
The role of Moana has yet to be cast in the live-action film, but the original voice actor Auli’i Cravalho has confirmed she won’t be playing the role. She said on Instagram:
“I believe it is absolutely vital that casting accurately represents the characters and stories we want to tell. I can’t wait to find the next actress to portray Moana’s courageous spirit, undeniable wit and emotional strength.”
