Animation enthusiasts worldwide gathered at the prestigious Annecy Festival to celebrate the art of animation, where Walt Disney Animation Studios commenced their 2024 showcase with an iconic quote from their founder: Laughter is timeless, imagination has no age, and dreams are forever.
Kickstarting the event was Mark Henn, honored with the Annecy Walk of Fame award for his remarkable contributions to Disney’s legacy. Henn supervised animation on numerous beloved characters over his 43-year career. Upon receiving his award, he addressed the students present: Keep drawing. Every aspect of animation, whether it’s 2D or CG, still starts with a paper and pencil.
For fans anticipating Moana 2, directors David Derrick Jr., Jason Hand, and co-director Dana Ledoux Miller took to the stage to unveil exciting new details. Derrick shared his personal connection: I came to Disney for Moana. Part of my ancestry comes from Samoa, and it’s a delight to bring the Polynesian voyagers on screen.
The sequel will also feature collaboration with Nainoa Thompson and the Polynesian Voyaging Society.
Returning Cast Members
The presentation revealed that returning cast members Auli’i Cravalho will reprise her role as Moana, while Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson will be back as Maui. Alan Tudyk also returns as Heihei. This trio promises to bring their signature dynamism and charisma back to the beloved world of Moana.
A New Adventure
The film follows Moana on an unforeseen journey into long-lost waters after receiving a call from her ancestors. Alongside Maui and her quirky crew – including Loto, the village’s shipwright; Kele, a grumpy farmer; Moni, a clumsy historian; and her faithful pets Heihei and Pua – she sets out to find the lost island of Motu Fetu.
Recognizing Ocean Unification
Derrick emphasized a central theme: The ocean, which seems to divide the islands, is actually uniting them.
This perspective is reflected throughout the film’s journey.
A Musical Experience
The musical duo Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear contribute new songs for this sequel, including the catchy tune “We’re Back,” which has gained popularity on TikTok. This song pays homage to Lin-Manuel Miranda’s earlier works while introducing vibrant new energy.
Special Collaborations
The film is a significant collaboration between Disney’s Burbank and Vancouver studios. The return of hand-drawn animation led by Eric Goldberg brings back Mini Maui, along with contributions from veterans like Mark Henn.
Unveiled Characters and Adventures
Early footage shown during the sneak peek featured various adventures including encounters with quirky Kakamora crew members and a Godzilla-sized boat-eating clam. Notable scenes emphasize Maui’s multi-purpose fishing hook and his charming personality.
A Community Effort
The directors collectively expressed gratitude for the efforts behind this project: This has been an ocean to cross, and we are thankful to those who came across that ocean with us.
Follow Us
