Disney’s highly anticipated sequel, Moana 2, will hit theaters this November instead of premiering as a TV series on Disney+. Walt Disney Animation’s Chief Creative Officer Jennifer Lee and co-director David Derrick Jr. explained the decision to transition the project from a streaming series to a feature film.
Derrick noted, “It became apparent very early on that this wanted to be on the big screen. It felt like a groundswell within the whole studio.” Jennifer Lee emphasized the studio’s commitment to theatrical releases, saying, “Supporting the theaters is something that we talked about. We love Disney+, but it will go there eventually. These artists create stories that they want to see on the big screen.”
Co-director Dana Ledoux Miller discussed the film’s development, stressing continuity with the original. “We’re building, not replacing. We were really intentional about extending and expanding the character of Moana rather than starting over,” she said. Miller highlighted Moana’s evolving role, noting, “Her responsibilities are changing, and we’ve never really seen her have to lead her people day to day.”
Fans can view the first trailer for Moana 2 online. Additionally, a live-action adaptation of Moana is in the works, with casting details to be announced.
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