We're thrilled to announce Moana, our 56th animated feature film coming to theatres late 2016! pic.twitter.com/S8x1KkJwYh
— Disney Animation (@DisneyAnimation) October 20, 2014
I have never been so excited for an animated film than I am right now for Moana. As you can see above, Disney Animation announced that their next film in development for a 2016 release will be about a teenage girl from the fictional South Pacific world of Oceania who sets sail on an adventure. The synopsis reads:
“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.”
Ron Clements and Jon Musker are behind the film and they brought us Disney classics like Aladdin, The Little Mermaid, and The Princess and the Frog. Why am I buzzing about this film? Well, it’s a story about an adventurous female character WHO HAPPENS TO BE A WOMAN OF COLOUR. Mulan, Jasmine, and Tiana will have a friend! This is exciting! Musker described Moana as “indomitable, passionate and a dreamer with a unique connection to the ocean itself”. He also went on to say that we will root for her and love her.
So much love for this announcement. Good job, Disney Animation.