Filmmaker Files Copyright Infringement Lawsuit Over Disney’s “Moana” Franchise

Plaintiff Buck Woodall’s filing indicates that he had previously produced an animated film entitled “Bucky the Wave Warrior.” The film was inspired by Woodall’s “unique exposure” to Polynesian culture and shares some plot similarities with “Moana,” including a story that features a teenage trying to save a Polynesian island, depictions of Polynesian ancestors in the form of spirit animals, and a “symbolic necklace” that plays a role in the story.