Disney has been hit with a $10 billion copyright lawsuit filed by animator Buck Woodall, who alleges that the company used elements from his screenplay for the movie Moana and its sequel. Filed in a California federal court, the lawsuit claims that Disney copied ideas from Woodall’s project, Bucky, which he developed over 17 years.
Woodall asserts that Bucky shares thematic similarities with Moana, including the story of teenagers from an ancient Polynesian village who embark on adventures to save their homeland. The complaint highlights specific scenes, including an oceanic portal, that Woodall claims were directly taken from his materials. He is seeking 2.5% of the franchise’s gross revenue, amounting to $10 billion.
The lawsuit also alleges that Woodall provided a screenplay and trailer to Jenny Marchick, a former director at Mandeville Films, who later joined DreamWorks Animation. While a prior lawsuit concerning the first Moana film was dismissed, the release of Moana 2 last year has allowed Woodall to pursue legal action again.
Disney has yet to comment on the latest claims. Previously, the company denied any connection between Moana and Woodall’s project, with Moana director Ron Clements stating under oath that the film was independently developed.
Released in 2024, Moana 2 grossed $964 million worldwide and is a strong contender for awards this season. The lawsuit reignites discussions on intellectual property rights in Hollywood.
