The Moana 2 lawsuit is a significant copyright infringement case filed against Disney alleging that the company copied key elements of the Disney animated sequel Moana 2 from an independent creator’s screenplay and related materials. The claim was first initiated by Buck Woodall, who alleges Disney used his intellectual property—originally developed for a project called Bucky the Wave Warrior—without permission. While Disney won a prior lawsuit over the original Moana film, the case involving the sequel remains active as of 2025, drawing widespread media and industry attention.
Background and Origin of the Lawsuit
Buck Woodall developed the concept, screenplay, storyboards, and character designs for Bucky the Wave Warrior, a story with a Polynesian setting featuring a teenage hero on a quest involving demigods and spiritual themes. According to the lawsuit, in 2003 and the following years, Woodall shared his work with Jenny Marchick, then a director of development at Mandeville Films—an independent studio with a “first look” deal with Disney. Woodall claims Marchick passed his materials to Disney without his consent.
The original lawsuit filed in 2020 challenged the 2016 Moana film but was mostly dismissed due to statute of limitations concerns. However, Woodall’s new complaint focuses on Moana 2, released in November 2024, alleging that the sequel copied distinctive plot points, characters, and visual elements unique to his screenplay. The suit demands at least $10 billion in damages, equating to a percentage of the sequel’s box office revenue, which has already approached or surpassed $1 billion globally.
Key Allegations and Legal Claims
- Copyright Infringement: Woodall asserts that critical similarities in story arcs, character designs, themes involving demigods and Polynesian mythology, and specific sequences like watery portals reflect unlawful use of his protected intellectual property.
- Unauthorized Use of Materials: The complaint alleges Disney and associated parties used screenplay, concept art, and production plans without authorization, violating Woodall’s rights.
- Damages and Injunctive Relief: Woodall seeks substantial monetary damages, royalties, and permanent injunctions preventing Disney from further exploitation of his materials.
Disney’s Defense and Court Proceedings
Disney denies all allegations, arguing that the creation of Moana 2 was independently developed by the Disney creative team, without knowledge of Woodall’s materials. During the 2025 trial on the original Moana film lawsuit, a jury found no evidence that Disney employees had seen or used Woodall’s work. Disney also emphasizes the statute of limitations had largely expired for certain claims.
However, the lawsuit concerning Moana 2 remains pending, with motions to dismiss denied and discovery phases underway. The case could potentially result in a lengthy legal battle involving extensive evaluation of creative processes, expert testimony on copyright infringement, and settlement negotiations.
Broader Industry and Cultural Impact
The Moana 2 lawsuit raises critical questions about creativity, appropriation, and collaboration in the entertainment industry, particularly involving indigenous and culturally significant stories. It underscores the complexities of intellectual property protection in animation and the challenges faced by independent creators seeking recognition for their work.
The case also highlights the scale of financial stakes attached to blockbuster franchises and the increasing scrutiny on how studios source inspiration and ideas. It may influence how studios handle submissions, credit assignment, and copyright clearances in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Moana 2 Lawsuit
Who is suing Disney and why?
Animator and writer Buck Woodall is suing Disney for allegedly copying his screenplay and concepts from his project Bucky the Wave Warrior to create Moana 2 without permission.
What damages are claimed?
Woodall claims at least $10 billion in damages—about 2.5% of the sequel’s expected global box office revenue—along with injunctions against further use of his work.
Has Disney won any related cases?
Yes, Disney won a jury trial in 2025 regarding the original Moana film, with the court ruling no copyright infringement occurred.
What is the status of the Moana 2 lawsuit?
The lawsuit is ongoing, with pre-trial motions denied and discovery efforts underway. No trial date has been set yet.
Could this impact future Moana projects?
If Woodall’s claims are upheld or a settlement is reached, it could affect upcoming sequels, spinoff projects, or related merchandise, including the planned live-action adaptation.
Conclusion
The Moana 2 lawsuit highlights critical tensions between independent creators and major studios in the digital age. Beyond the blockbuster franchise, it is a case about artistic ownership, cultural storytelling, and the high stakes of intellectual property law. The outcome will not only affect Disney but also serve as a precedent for similar disputes across the entertainment industry, influencing how creativity and rights are balanced in big-budget filmmaking.
