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Moana 2 Copyright Infringement Lawsuit: Buck Woodall Seeks $10 Billion from Disney

Animator Buck Woodall has filed a $10 billion lawsuit against Disney, alleging that 'Moana 2' infringes on his 2003 screenplay 'Bucky'.

Moana 2 Copyright Lawsuit: Buck Woodall's $10 Billion Claim Against Disney

Introduction

In the midst of awards season, Disney is facing a significant legal challenge with the filing of a $10 billion copyright infringement lawsuit against the company. Animator Buck Woodall, who claims to have written an animated film titled 'Bucky' in 2003, alleges that Disney's 'Moana 2' has borrowed key elements from his original screenplay. This lawsuit is not Woodall's first attempt to challenge Disney; his previous lawsuit against the original 'Moana' film was dismissed in November 2024 due to being filed too late.

Background

Woodall's 'Bucky' screenplay, which includes a Polynesian village setting, a teenage protagonist embarking on an oceanic journey, and a hook-wielding demigod character, was submitted to Mandeville Films in 2003. Mandeville had a first-look deal with Disney at the time, raising questions about potential exposure of Woodall's work to Disney executives. Despite these connections, Disney denies any influence from Woodall’s work, stating that they were unaware of 'Bucky' until after the lawsuit was filed.

Key Allegations

The lawsuit points out several striking similarities between 'Moana 2' and 'Bucky', including:

  • Setting: Both films feature an ancient Polynesian village.
  • Protagonist's Journey: Both stories involve a teenage protagonist embarking on an oceanic adventure.
  • Demigod Character: Both films include a hook-wielding demigod with tattoos.
  • Symbolic Necklace: Both stories feature a symbolic necklace central to the plot.
  • Large Creature: Both films involve a large creature hidden in a mountain.
  • Whirlpool Portal: Both stories include a perilous whirlpool-like portal.

Legal Proceedings

The lawsuit was filed in California federal court on January 10, 2025, just over a week before the Oscar nominations are set to be announced. Woodall is seeking $10 billion in damages or 2.5% of 'Moana 2's gross revenue, as well as a court order to restrict any further alleged infringement of his copyrights. Disney has provided supporting documents showing the research, development, and story ideas behind 'Moana', which they claim were developed independently.

Impact on Disney

The outcome of this lawsuit could have significant consequences for Disney. If Woodall wins, Disney may be forced to pay substantial damages, potentially affecting the future of the 'Moana' franchise. However, a settlement is also possible, with Woodall potentially joining the franchise as an executive producer to ensure the longevity of the series.

Expert Insights

Cultural anthropologist Tevita O Ka'ili and other scholars have previously criticized Disney for the "disneyfication" of complex Polynesian historical myths in 'Moana'[2]. This lawsuit adds another layer of complexity to the discussion around intellectual property rights and cultural appropriation in the entertainment industry.

Conclusion

The 'Moana 2' copyright lawsuit highlights the complexities of intellectual property rights in the entertainment industry. As the case unfolds, it will be crucial to determine whether the similarities between 'Moana 2' and 'Bucky' are coincidental or indicative of copyright infringement. The outcome will not only impact Disney financially but also influence the future of the 'Moana' franchise.

Key Pieces of Information:

  1. Lawsuit Filed: January 10, 2025, in California federal court.
  2. Amount Sought: $10 billion in damages or 2.5% of 'Moana 2's gross revenue.
  3. Previous Lawsuit: Dismissed in November 2024 due to being filed too late.
  4. Similarities: Ancient Polynesian village setting, teenage protagonist's oceanic journey, hook-wielding demigod character, symbolic necklace, large creature hidden in a mountain, and whirlpool portal.
  5. Disney’s Response: Denies any influence from Woodall’s work, provides supporting documents showing independent development of 'Moana'.
  6. Potential Impact: Substantial damages or settlement, potential involvement of Woodall as an executive producer to ensure franchise longevity.

References:

  1. WDWNT: Disney Faces New Lawsuit Over Moana Idea Theft
  2. From the Ethics Desk: Moana, Make Way Make Way
  3. AllEars: Animator Files Lawsuit Against Disney, Claiming 'Moana' Ideas Were Stolen
  4. Hollywood Life: 'Moana 2' Copyright Lawsuit: Why Disney Is Being Sued