A third installment in Disney's animated "Moana" saga is officially in development, with actor Dwayne Johnson confirming the project is underway. Johnson, who voices the demigod Maui, shared the news this week while promoting the upcoming live-action adaptation of the film. The announcement comes as the franchise's popularity, particularly on the Disney+ streaming platform, continues to surge, a decade after the original film's debut.
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Johnson, speaking at a press conference in Rio de Janeiro for the live-action "Moana," addressed questions about a potential third animated chapter. He stated, "Yes, we have talked about Moana 3, yes." However, he tempered expectations, adding that the live-action film, slated for release on July 10, would precede any further animated ventures. The screenplay for "Moana 3" is reportedly being penned by Jared Bush and Dana Ledoux Miller, who also contributed to previous entries.
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This confirmation arrives shortly after the initial unveiling of Catherine Laga’aia as the titular Moana in the live-action remake, a project Johnson is also involved with as an executive producer. The simultaneous development of both live-action and animated sequels highlights Disney's sustained interest in the "Moana" intellectual property.
A Franchise's Resurgence: From Theaters to Streams
The original animated "Moana" premiered in 2016, garnering a significant $680 million at the global box office. Its appeal, however, has demonstrably broadened and deepened through its availability on Disney+. The film has consistently ranked as one of the most-watched titles on the streaming service, suggesting a robust and engaged audience eagerly awaiting new stories within its world.
The decision to greenlight "Moana 3" represents Disney's first instance of intentionally producing a theatrical sequel specifically for the animated "Moana" narrative. While further details regarding plot, directorial team, and voice cast beyond Johnson remain scarce, the commitment to a third chapter solidifies the franchise's status within Disney's ongoing cinematic strategy.
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