As it continues to reimagine its vast catalog of animated classics into live-action spectacles, Disney has teamed with Dwayne Johnson to add Moana to the list. As announced by Johnson via Twitter, Disney is teaming with Seven Bucks Productions and Flynn Picture Co. to bring the 2016 hit to life. News of the product was also given to Disney Shareholders today by Bob Iger during a webcast. Johnson also announced that he would reprise the role of Maui.
According to a statement from Disney, “Like its animated predecessor, the film will celebrate the islands, communities and traditions of Pacific Islanders as seen through the eyes of a young woman eager to pave her own path. Moana’s journey of self-discovery and reflection on the lives of her ancestors won hearts worldwide, as did her newfound friendship with an exiled demigod named Maui.”
Auli’i Cravalho, who served as the voice of Moana in the 2016 animated film will serve as an executive producer on the film along with Scott Sheldon, Jared Bush, who wrote the screenplay for the original film, and Dana Ledoux Miller. “She has had such a profound impact on how we think of Disney princesses,” Cravalho said of the titular character. “Moana’s strength and perseverance are inspiring—to audiences around the world, to me and to everyone who helped bring her to life. I’m looking forward to sharing her story in a whole new way.“
At this time, no timetable has been laid out for the film as it searches for a director.