MOANA takes place in the ancient South Pacific world of Oceania. The titular character (Auli'i Cravalho), 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 (Dwayne Johnson), to traverse the open ocean on an action-packed voyage, encountering enormous sea creatures, breathtaking underworlds and ancient folklore. Check out the first image below!
14-year old Auli'i Cravalho was discovered during a charity competition, after which an agent flew her out to Los Angeles to meet directors Ron Clements and John Musker (THE LITTLE MERMAID, ALADDIN). The rest, as they say, is history. You can check out a brief video below of Auli'i's audition process as well as some concept art for the film. Given the directors involved, I'll be expecting something special from Disney Animation's next!
MOANA is scheduled to hit theaters on November 23, 2016.