LOS ANGELES, California – Moana and Maui are set to return to the big screen as Disney announced a sequel to the popular 2016 animated film. The news came as a surprise during an earnings call led by Disney CEO Bob Iger. The sequel is scheduled to hit theaters on Nov. 27, marking a much-anticipated return for the beloved characters.
The original film, directed by Ron Clements and John Musker, was a massive success grossing $643.3 million globally. It also received critical acclaim, earning Oscar nominations for best animated feature and best song for Lin-Manuel Miranda’s “How Far I’ll Go.” With such success, the decision to release a sequel comes as a logical next step for Disney.
The sequel, which was initially developed as a TV series, will now be released as a feature film following its impressive viewing numbers on Disney+. The company’s decision to release the film theatrically underscores its continued cultural impact and popularity amongst audiences.
Dave Derrick Jr., a story board artist for the original film, will direct the sequel, while a team of talented musicians, including Abigail Barlow, Emily Bear, Opetaia Foa’i, and Mark Mancina, will work on the music for the new movie. Additionally, the return of Auliʻi Cravalho and Dwayne Johnson to reprise their roles as Moana and Maui respectively is highly anticipated by fans.
The announcement of the Moana sequel comes as Disney shifts its focus to producing more sequels and franchises, in an effort to capitalize on the success of its existing properties. The company has recently faced challenges with underperforming high-profile sequels, prompting it to rethink its franchise strategy. Disney’s renewed emphasis on sequels and existing franchises signals a change in its approach to developing new projects.
While the original film was well-received, Disney’s decision to release a sequel reflects the ongoing trend of entertainment companies capitalizing on the success of popular titles. As the entertainment industry continues to evolve, sequels and franchise productions are becoming increasingly common, with audiences showing a strong appetite for familiar and beloved characters.
Overall, the announcement of the Moana sequel marks an exciting development for Disney fans and further solidifies the studio’s commitment to bringing beloved characters back to the big screen. With the return of Moana and Maui, Disney aims to not only please existing fans but also attract a new generation of audiences to their timeless and beloved characters.