Los Angeles - UPI
Disney Animation Studios announced Monday that its 56th animated feature film, Moana, would hit theaters in late 2016, two years earlier than expected.
Along with the new release date, Disney shared concept art from the film, which will tell the story of a Polynesian princess who "sets sail in search of a fabled island."
Here's the plot synopsis (via IGN):
In the ancient South Pacific world of Oceania, Moana, a born navigator, sets sail in search of a fabled island. During her incredible journey, she teams up with her hero, the legendary demi-god Maui, to traverse the open ocean on an action-packed voyage, encountering enormous sea creatures, breathtaking underworlds and ancient folklore.
Moana will be directed by Disney hit-makers Ron Clements and John Musker.
"John and I have partnered on so many films -- from The Little Mermaid to Aladdin to The Princess and the Frog," Clements said in a statement. "Creating Moana is one of the great thrills of our career. It's a big adventure set in this beautiful world of Oceania."