Disney's "Moana," the latest animated feature about a Polynesian princess, is scheduled to hit theaters on Nov. 23. Just like the other Disney movies, "Moana" is reportedly going to have two Easter eggs that feature characters from "Frozen" and "Little Mermaid."
"Moana" directors Ron Clements and John Musker confirmed to Buzzfeed that Olaf from "Frozen" and Flounder from "Little Mermaid" will be appearing "briefly" in the South Pacific-inspired animation. They refused to reveal any more details about the Easter eggs, except to advise movie goers to "keep a sharp eye." Clements and Musker, who also served as directors for "Aladdin" and "Hercules," teased there will be more familiar Disney characters popping throughout "Moana."
The directors also said that they want "Moana" to be a lead character that is "an action hero, capable of action," per MTV. Thus, viewers should not expect to find a typical Disney princess because "Moana" is anything but typical.
Because her character is Polynesian, "Moana" animators drew the princess so distinct that her physical appearance sets her apart from other Disney heroines. The women working behind the film gave the animators some inputs in creating Moana. "Let's have her be a more realistic body shape and feel like she's not going to be blown over by a strong wind," the women apparently shared, Musker said.
Light the torch, find your way, dive right in. Watch a sneak peek of #Moana and see it in 3D this Thanksgiving!https://t.co/RpPLEzsmZE
— Moana (@DisneyMoana) August 7, 2016
"Moana" also had Polynesian elders as advisers on the set, so that the production team would be able to come up with a characterization and a story that is culturally and historically accurate. "[We kept] them involved so we can keep this right," said Clements via Gizmodo.
"Moana" is voiced by teen actress Auli'i Cravalho. The film also features Dwayne Johnson, as Maui the Polynesian demi-god who has the ability to transform. Music to the film is provided by Mark Mancina, Opetaia Foa'i and Lin-Manuel Miranda. Taika Waititi, who is directing "Thor: Ragnarok," wrote the first draft for "Moana's" screenplay.
