The excitement is building as Moana and Maui are set to make a grand return to theaters in their highly anticipated sequel.
Following the tremendous success of the original film, which premiered in November 2016, Moana 2 continues the adventure of the ocean-loving heroine. The first movie captivated audiences with its memorable songs and the adventurous tale of Moana, played by Auliʻi Cravalho, who, with the help of the demigod Dwayne Johnson, saves her people from a devastating curse.
In February, Disney CEO Bob Iger revealed that the sequel was initially developed for television. However, after viewing the footage, it was decided to turn it into a full-length theatrical release. “We were impressed by what we saw and knew it deserved a theatrical release,” Iger stated on CNBC, according to Variety. “Moana remains a top-rated franchise, and we can’t wait to bring more Moana and Maui to the big screen with Moana 2.”
Here’s everything we know about Moana 2 so far:
When Is ‘Moana 2’ Going to Be Released?
The sequel is slated to hit theaters just before Thanksgiving on November 27, coinciding with the release of the film adaptation of Wicked.
What Is ‘Moana 2’ About?
In this installment, Moana embarks on a thrilling quest to explore whether life exists beyond the shores of Motunui. Guided by an unexpected call from her wayfinding ancestors, she and her crew venture into the uncharted waters of Oceania, encountering dangerous and uncharted territories along the way.
How Will ‘Moana 2’ Be Different from the First Film?
According to a press release dated April 4, Moana will be depicted as older, as the story takes place “three years after her initial voyage.” Additionally, a “brand-new crew of unlikely seafarers,” whose names have yet to be revealed, will join the adventure.
Will Lin-Manuel Miranda Be Writing Music for ‘Moana 2’?
While Lin-Manuel Miranda contributed some of the original film’s most popular tracks, such as “How Far I’ll Go” and “You’re Welcome,” he will not be composing new songs for the sequel. Instead, the music will be crafted by Abigail Barlow, Emily Bear, Opetaia Foa’i, and Mark Mancina, who also worked on the first film.
Who Makes Up the Cast of ‘Moana 2’?
Returning cast members include Cravalho and Johnson, with Alan Tudyk reprising his role as Hei Hei. Other returning stars are Rachel House as Grandma Tala, Temuera Morrison as Chief Tui, and Nicole Scherzinger as Sina. The sequel will also introduce Moana’s little sister, voiced by Khaleesi Lambert-Tsuda, with Hualālai Chung, David Fane, Rose Matafeo, Awhimai Fraser, and Gerald Ramsey completing the cast.
Has the Cast Said Anything About ‘Moana 2’?
In February, Cravalho posted an Instagram reel outside Disney Studios, captioned, “That feeling when you’re officially returning to Motunui. We’re sailing WAY beyond the reef this November… ❤️🌀🐚”
Johnson also shared insights about the animation with E! News in February, noting, “The effect, the technology is cutting edge and we went for it.”
Who Is Directing ‘Moana 2’?
Dave Derrick Jr., known for his work on Raya and the Last Dragon, Encanto, and the live-action Lion King, will direct the sequel.
Are There Other ‘Moana’ Projects in the Works?
A live-action adaptation of Moana is scheduled for release in 2025, starring Johnson. “I’m excited that we’re going to start shooting the live-action Moana this year. I can’t wait,” he told E! News in a February interview.