Animator Buck Woodall has filed a $10 billion lawsuit against Disney, claiming that their Moana 2 movie infringes on his 2003 screenplay for Bucky. Woodall argues that significant elements of his screenplay, which he submitted to Mandeville Films (a company with a first-look deal with Disney), appear to have been copied in Moana 2. The lawsuit seeks 2.5% of the film's gross revenue as damages.
Key Similarities Between Bucky and Moana 2:
Woodall points out several striking similarities that he believes prove the two works are linked. These include:
- Polynesian village setting
- A teenage girl embarking on an oceanic journey
- A hook-wielding demigod as a supporting character
- A turtle-driven adventure
- A symbolic necklace central to the plot
- A large creature hidden in a mountain
- A perilous whirlpool-like portal
Woodall contends that these plot elements are too specific and similar to have been independently developed and that they mirror key aspects of his Bucky screenplay.
Previous Legal Battle and Current Claims
This is not the first time Woodall has taken legal action against Disney. A previous lawsuit regarding the original Moana movie was dismissed in November 2024, as it was filed too late. However, Woodall has continued his legal pursuit for Moana 2, claiming that the similarities are too significant to be coincidental.
In response to the lawsuit, Ron Clements, co-director of Moana, denied any influence from Woodall’s work. Clements stated that they were unaware of the Bucky project until the lawsuit was filed.
Potential Consequences for Disney
Given the financial success of the Moana franchise, this lawsuit could have serious implications for Disney. If Woodall succeeds in his claim, Disney could be required to pay substantial damages. Furthermore, the future of the Moana franchise could be in jeopardy, depending on the outcome. A potential settlement could result in Woodall joining the franchise as an executive producer, but only time will tell how this legal battle unfolds.
