Disney is currently embroiled in a significant legal battle as animator Buck Woodall has filed a $10 billion lawsuit, alleging that the company infringed on his copyrighted screenplay for a project titled Bucky in the creation of Moana 2. The lawsuit, filed in a California federal court, claims that Disney’s sequel mirrors several key elements from Woodall’s screenplay, which he originally submitted to Mandeville Films in 2003.
Key Allegations
Woodall asserts that both Moana and Moana 2 share striking similarities with his script, including:
Setting: Both stories take place in a Polynesian village.
Protagonist: A teenage girl who defies her parents to embark on an oceanic journey.
Supporting Characters: A hook-wielding demigod who assists the protagonist.
Plot Elements: A turtle-driven adventure, a symbolic necklace central to the narrative, a large creature hidden within a mountain, and a perilous whirlpool-like portal.
Woodall argues that these elements could not have been developed independently, suggesting that Disney had access to his original materials during the development of Moana.
Previous Legal Challenges
This is not Woodall’s first attempt to challenge Disney; his initial lawsuit regarding the original Moana was dismissed in November 2024 due to being filed too late. However, with the release of Moana 2 on November 27, 2024, Woodall seized the opportunity to pursue legal action once again. The court previously indicated that a jury could determine whether the two works are substantially similar if the statute of limitations had not expired.
Disney’s Response
In response to the allegations, Ron Clements, co-director of Moana, has denied any influence from Woodall’s work, stating that they were unaware of the Bucky project until after the lawsuit was initiated. Disney is expected to defend itself vigorously against these claims.
Implications for Disney
The outcome of this lawsuit could have significant ramifications for Disney and its beloved franchise. If Woodall’s claims are upheld, it may jeopardize future developments within the Moana series. However, given Disney’s substantial financial resources, a $10 billion payout would not be catastrophic.
It is speculated that Disney might consider collaborating with Woodall as an executive producer to mitigate potential losses and ensure continued success for future installments.
As this legal dispute unfolds, it highlights ongoing tensions in the entertainment industry regarding copyright and intellectual property rights. The case will be closely monitored as it could set important precedents for how creative works are protected and developed in Hollywood.
via THR.
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