With the surprising revelation that Disney is releasing Moana 2 later this year, the notion of a live-action remake of the original movie becomes even more peculiar. So, what’s going on with the chosen one and her mini cinematic universe?
Disney, more often than not, likes to give its princesses as much time in the spotlight as possible. The likes of Elsa, Mulan, and even the anti-princess, Vanellope, have been given sequels over the years, and that’s not even taking into account all the live-action remakes the House of Mouse has attempted.
Of all the animated movies Disney could remake, the plans to bring Moana into the real world have come under heavy scrutiny.
Now, with the news that a sequel to the 2016 movie is on the way, the controversial idea of a live-action version of Moana feels even more redundant than before.
Will we get both Moana 2 and a live-action version?
As it stands, yes, we will be getting Moana 2 in November 2024, and Dwayne Johnson is planning to bring Moana to live-action in the summer of 2025.
Johnson revealed the live-action plans on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon back in November and confirmed he would be taking on the role of the demigod Maui once more, after delivering an iconic performance in the animated version of the story.
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.@TheRock confirms a live-action remake of “Moana” is happening and celebrates by singing an impromptu version of “You’re Welcome”! #FallonTonight pic.twitter.com/jMxIUJnW2q
— The Tonight Show (@FallonTonight) November 14, 2023
How exactly that will work, given the unusual physical frame of Maui and the sheer scale of Moana and its watery environment, remains to be seen. But, it’s happening, and it will probably make lots of money.
Aside from this entirely, the Moana 2 release date was announced by Disney on Wednesday, February 7, with the studio dropping the first teaser trailer and a striking image from the upcoming movie.
The project was originally intended to be a TV show, but has since been edited and transitioned into a surprise sequel. Little is known about the plot for the film, but judging by the trailer for Moana 2, the titular princess is older, and is leading her people on a voyage across the sea.
For more from Disney, you can find out how many live-action remakes Disney has already made, or look into the details surrounding other sequels like Frozen 3 and Toy Story 5.