Over the years, fans have come to expect stories of epic proportions when it comes to Disney princesses, and with characters like Ariel, Mulan, Sleeping Beauty and Jasmine, Disney has not disappointed.
With that being said, Disney has now released information for their next Disney princess, Moana. According to Cinema Blend, the story of Moana is a mythic adventure set around 2000 years ago across a series of islands in the South Pacific.
The title character of Moana is the typical rambunctious teenage girl who is set to prove herself as a Master Wayfinder, and fulfill her ancestors' unfinished journey as exploration for her tribe has stopped suddenly and without explanation.
The role for the voice of Moana has fallen on a newcomer, Auli'I Cravalho, who is Hawaiian by descent, reports Variety. When asked about landing the role of a Disney princess, Cravalho did not think she had a chance. Cravalho states that as a child, she used to dance and sing around her living room, pretending she was one of these princesses. Now, it is a dream to play one and represent her culture at the same time.
Cravlho was actually seen by a Disney casting agent while the actress was singing during a charity competition. After the agent witnessed Cravlho sing for several rounds, the Hawaiian was flown to Los Angeles, where she was introduced to Ron Clements and Jon Muster, the forces behind such Disney blockbusters such as "Aladdin" and "The Little Mermaid." The rest, as they say, was history.
But what is a Disney princess without her faithful side companion? Ariel had Flounder and Snow White had the seven dwarfs. Moana's companion will be Oahu, a fallen demigod of the islands. For this role, Disney has hired Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson.
Johnson's roles have been iconic to say the least. They range from Action (The "Fast and Furious" franchise) to comedic ("Pain and Gain") to even a bit dramatic ("Gridiron Gang"). Bringing in Johnson for the film pretty much ensures success as the actor is known for bringing in large numbers for any film he is attached to.
With Moana, Disney is looking to reproduce the magic they had with their last animated adventure "Frozen", which earned over US$1 billion worldwide. However, if Moana can gain as much popularity as Elsa did is yet to be seen.
"Moana" is set to open on Nov. 23, 2016.