Disney’s Moana 2 has officially arrived on Disney+, following a massive theatrical run that crossed the $1 billion mark at the global box office.
The sequel was initially conceived as a streaming series, but its unexpected transformation into a feature film presented unique challenges, says co-writer and co-director Dana Ledoux Miller.
“There was a lot of streamlining,” Miller explains. “The series spent more time with Moana’s ship crew, but for the film, we had to refocus on her journey as a leader.”
Miller, who is Samoan, deeply connected with Moana’s Polynesian representation. “I wept watching the first film,” she recalls. “Seeing a Disney princess reflect my culture was incredibly powerful.”
Before joining Moana 2, Miller built her career working on Netflix’s Narcos and Thai Cave Rescue. Now, she’s also dedicated to opening doors for underrepresented talent through her organization, Pasifika Entertainment Advancement Komiti (PEAK).
Miller is also co-writing the upcoming live-action Moana, directed by Hamilton’s Thomas Kail. The film will star newcomer Catherine Laga‘aia as Moana, alongside Dwayne Johnson reprising his role as Maui.
“The live-action version will honor the original while bringing a new level of realism,” Miller says. “Seeing a 16-year-old brave the ocean in real life adds a whole new emotional depth.”
With Moana 2 making waves on Disney+ and the live-action adaptation on the horizon, the beloved franchise continues to grow, celebrating Polynesian culture on a global stage.
COMMENTS
Comments are moderated and generally will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive.
For more information, please see our Comments FAQ