Disney being sued for billions over Moana claims

In a federal court in California, animator Buck Woodall has filed a lawsuit against Disney, alleging that the studio unlawfully derived elements from his screenplay titled Bucky, conceived in the early 2000s. Woodall asserts that he shared his screenplay and related materials with Jenny Marchick in 2003, who was then a director at Mandeville Films, which had a first look deal with Disney. He emphasizes substantial similarities between his Bucky project and Disney's Moana, particularly in narrative structure, character development, and thematic elements centered around Polynesian culture. The claims extend to Moana 2, released in November 2023, wherein Woodall notes additional overlaps such as character arcs and specific plot devices like the deadly whirlpool. He maintains that both Moana films mirror his work too closely to be coincidental, thus suggesting malicious intent on the part of Disney for appropriating the materials he provided over the years. This lawsuit follows Woodall's previous failed attempt to litigate Disney for the original Moana film, which a US district judge dismissed due to late filing. The release of Moana 2, followed by impressive box office earnings, provided Woodall the opportunity to revisit the case. His claims include seeking $10 billion in damages, arguing that such severe compensation is warranted based on the revenue generated by Disney's films, which he estimates would represent 2.5% of Moana's earnings. In response, Disney has consistently refuted claims that Moana or its sequel was inspired by Woodall's work. Director Ron Clements has previously stated that he learned about Woodall’s project only after it was brought to light in the lawsuit. Disney has submitted extensive documentation outlining the film's independent development, including ideas and script drafts that predate Woodall's interactions with the company. The case raises substantial questions about intellectual property rights in the entertainment industry, particularly regarding how ideas evolve over long periods and the legal protections afforded to creators.