In a recent verdict that could ripple through the entertainment industry, a Los Angeles jury sided with Disney in a five-year copyright dispute concerning the origins of the animated hit “Moana.” The case, presided over by Judge Alka Sagar in the Roybal Federal Building, concluded with a decision favoring Disney against plaintiff Buck Woodall’s claims. However, Woodall’s legal challenges are far from over as he has launched a separate $10 billion lawsuit related to the upcoming sequel, “Moana 2.”
A Legal Victory for Disney
After less than three hours of deliberation, a jury of six women and two men concluded that Disney’s primary creators of “Moana,” John Musker and Ron Clements, had not been exposed to Woodall’s work, “Bucky the Surfer Boy.” This decision came as a significant relief to Disney, which has maintained that the 2016 film was developed without any influence from Woodall’s creations.
“We are incredibly proud of the collective work that went into making ‘Moana’ and are pleased that the jury found it had nothing to do with Plaintiff’s works,” said a spokesperson for Disney, highlighting the company’s satisfaction with the jury’s findings. This sentiment starkly contrasts the disappointment expressed by Woodall’s legal team. “We are obviously disappointed in the verdict,” remarked Woodall’s attorney, Gustavo D. Lage, hinting at potential appeals and further legal actions.
The Ongoing Saga with ‘Moana 2’
Despite the recent legal victory, Disney’s legal troubles are not yet in calm waters. Woodall has initiated a new lawsuit concerning “Moana 2,” a sequel to the original film that has already grossed over $1 billion worldwide. This new lawsuit, filed in January 2025, seeks a staggering $10 billion, approximately 2.5% of the sequel’s gross revenues.
The crux of Woodall’s claim hinges on allegations that a distant relative, Jenny Marchick, formerly of Mandeville Films and now with DreamWorks Animation, used his copyrighted materials without his consent. These materials allegedly influenced the development of “Moana” and its subsequent sequel. The lawsuit describes a “two-decade-long scheme” purportedly initiated by Marchick to advance her career by misappropriating Woodall’s creative works.
Testimonies and Trials
During the trial, extensive discussions and document examinations revealed that Disney began work on the original “Moana,” inspired by Herman Melville, back in 2011. Woodall’s legal team emphasized this timeline to suggest potential access to his copyrighted materials.
Marchick, during her testimony, insisted she had no recollection of ever sharing any of Woodall’s materials with Disney staff, despite their familial connection and her role in the industry. Correspondences revealed in court showed her expressing doubts about assisting Woodall with his ambitions at Disney.
Looking Ahead
As “Moana 2” continues to make waves at the box office, the legal battles surrounding its creation story are adding a layer of drama to its legacy. Disney, while victorious in the initial bout, must now prepare to defend its blockbuster sequel in a lawsuit that could potentially cost billions.
This ongoing legal saga not only underscores the complexities of copyright law in the entertainment industry but also highlights the intricate relationships and communications that can sometimes lead to significant disputes. As this case progresses, it will be closely watched by industry professionals and copyright experts alike, marking another chapter in the storied legal history of Hollywood’s film franchises.