Set sail for adventure once more! Moana, the courageous wayfinder, is returning to the big screen in Moana 2, a movie sequel produced by Walt Disney Animation Studios that promises to be even grander than the original film. Dwayne Johnson reprises his voice role as the demigod Maui, joined once again by Auli’i Cravalho as the voice of the titular heroine. This article dives deep into everything we know so far about the highly anticipated film, from its plot and release date to the exciting new members of the creative crew. So, buckle up and get ready to learn all about Moana’s next epic journey!
What will the Moana 2 movie be about?
On April 3, 2024, the Walt Disney Company released the official synopsis for Moana 2, which you can read below:
“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.”
Development on Moana 2 started in 2020 as a television series for Disney+ before being reworked into a theatrical sequel by February 2024.
Who will direct Moana 2?
Moana 2 will be directed by David G. Derrick Jr., who will also write the sequel. Derrick worked as a story artist for the first Moana film released in 2016.
Moana composers Opetaia Foa’i and Mark Mancina will return to the film series to create original songs for Moana 2. The pair will be joined by newcomers Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear, who are best known for creating The Unofficial Bridgerton Musical. For some reason, Lin-Manuel Miranda, who contributed songwriting to the original film, is not expected to come back for the sequel.
Who will star in Moana 2?
Except for Johnson and Cravalho, it’s unclear whether original voice cast members Rachel House, Temuera Morrison, Jemaine Clement, Nicole Scherzinger, and Alan Tudyk will reprise their respective roles in the sequel. According to People, additional cast announcements will be announced later in the year.
Has Disney released a trailer for Moana 2 yet?
No, Disney has not dropped a trailer for Moana 2 yet. But on February 7, 2024, a brief sneak peek teasing footage from the film has been released.
Fast-forward to April 3, 2024, Disney unveiled a shot from the much-awaited movie, which sees Moana looking slightly more mature while smirking and again brandishing her paddle on a boat, surrounded by water. In the distance behind Moana, there’s a giant sea creature partially covered by what appears to be a lush land mass.
Moana 2 release date
Moana 2 will be released in theaters on November 27, 2024.
Are there any other Moana projects on the horizon?
Yes. In addition to the animated movie sequel Moana 2, Disney is also working on a live-action remake of the original movie, which is set to be released in 2025. The live-action film will be directed by Thomas Kail, with Johnson playing the live-action role of Maui. A yet-to-be-announced new actress will take on the live-action role of Moana. Cravalho, meanwhile, will serve as one of the film’s executive producers.