Disney announces “Moana” as 2016 animated film from “The Little Mermaid” filmmakers, set in ancient South Pacific

in Entertainment, Movies, The Walt Disney Company

Moana and Maui set sail on their iconic wooden raft with a billowing cloth sail, journeying across shimmering blue-green waves in a scene inspired by the adventurous spirit of Disney’s Moana, capturing the magic and excitement fans love at Disney theme park attractions.

Walt Disney Animation Studios announced today “Moana,” a CG-animated comedy-adventure about a teenager on a mission to fulfill her ancestors’ quest.

Hitting theaters in late 2016, the film is being directed by the filmmaking team of Ron Clements and John Musker (“The Little Mermaid,” “The Princess and the Frog,” “Aladdin”).

“John and I have partnered on so many films—from ‘The Little Mermaid’ to ‘Aladdin’ to ‘The Princess and the Frog,’” said Clements. “Creating ‘Moana’ is one of the great thrills of our career. It’s a big adventure set in this beautiful world of Oceania.”

Moana and Maui set sail in their iconic boat with a vibrant patterned sail, gliding over sparkling blue waves toward lush green cliffs, capturing the excitement and magic of the Moana adventure as seen at Disney Parks and Resorts.

In the ancient South Pacific world of Oceania, Moana, a born navigator, sets sail in search of a fabled island. During her incredible journey, she teams up with her hero, the legendary demi-god Maui, to traverse the open ocean on an action-packed voyage, encountering enormous sea creatures, breathtaking underworlds and ancient folklore.

“Moana is indomitable, passionate and a dreamer with a unique connection to the ocean itself,” Musker said. “She’s the kind of character we all root for, and we can’t wait to introduce her to audiences.”

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