Moana, according to press notes, is described as such: “Teenager Moana has always felt drawn to the ocean, despite her father's dictate that no one on their Polynesian island is to go beyond its encircling reef. When danger threatens her home, Moana searches for Maui, a mischievous demigod, who becomes an unlikely ally as she matures into the hero her people need.”

The songwriting/composing team for the new Disney film includes Tony winner Lin-Manuel Miranda, Mark Mancina, and Opetaia Foa‘i.

Moana opened domestically November 23, 2016, becoming the No. 2 Thanksgiving debut ever with $82 million. In addition to its Oscar nomination for Animated Feature, the film received a nomination for Miranda's song, “How Far I'll Go.”