Disney has once again demonstrated its knack for innovation, teaming up with Japanese director Genshō Yasuda to release anime-style shorts as promotional content for the big sequel, Moana 2. These shorts, produced by Yasuda’s Xenotoon-affiliated Yasuda Gensho Studio, were officially approved by Disney Animation Studios and provide a unique take on the beloved Disney musical format.
With two videos already available and two more in the pipeline, these anime adaptations highlight Disney’s growing focus on global collaboration and artistic diversity.
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Anime-Style Shorts Bring Moana 2 to Life
The anime shorts, designed to complement Moana 2, breathe fresh air into the storytelling and musical essence of the film. Featuring Japanese-dubbed renditions of iconic songs, the shorts showcase reimagined moments from the movie. Tomona Yabiku performs the songs “Kaettekita, Honto no Watashi ni” (“Return to the True Me”) and “Beyond Koete Yukō” (“Beyond Go Beyond”), which correspond to their English versions, “We’re Back” and “Beyond.”
Fans can look forward to two additional releases featuring Matangi’s song “Mayoe” (“Get Lost”) and Maui’s energetic “Dekiru sa! Chee Hoo!” (“Can I Get a Chee Hoo?”), performed by Sonim and Matsuya Onoe, respectively.
Genshō Yasuda’s Vision and Disney’s Global Outreach
Genshō Yasuda, known for his innovative 3DCG anime projects, has openly expressed his admiration for Disney, citing this collaboration as a dream come true. Yasuda’s work on these shorts underscores Disney’s commitment to fostering international creative partnerships.
Disney’s decision to infuse an anime aesthetic into promotional material for Moana 2 demonstrates its effort to appeal to a global audience, particularly in Japan, where anime dominates the entertainment landscape. This approach aligns with Yasuda’s growing reputation; he recently directed the Hollywood-premiering Make a Girl, which will debut in Japan early next year.
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A Perfect Companion to Moana 2’s Record-Breaking Success
The release of these shorts arrives on the heels of Moana 2’s staggering box office debut. The sequel not only brought back fan favorites Moana and Maui, voiced by Auli’i Cravalho and Dwayne Johnson, but it also introduced new characters and storylines. Over its five-day Thanksgiving opening, the film shattered records, grossing over $389 million globally and earning the title of the highest Thanksgiving weekend opening in history.
Moana 2 continues the legacy of the original 2016 hit, with directors Jared Bush and Jason Hand emphasizing how songs act as emotional anchors, enabling viewers to connect deeply with the characters—a strength echoed in Yasuda’s anime shorts.
Where to Watch the Moana 2 Anime Shorts
For those eager to dive into these anime creations, the first two shorts are available online on YouTube. Yasuda has yet to confirm exact release dates for the upcoming videos, but fans can expect the same artistic brilliance and musical enchantment. As this collaboration unfolds, it offers a compelling glimpse into how classic Disney storytelling can seamlessly integrate with modern anime sensibilities.
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With Moana 2 already making waves and Yasuda’s anime shorts adding a new layer to the experience, Disney’s latest project is a testament to the power of cross-cultural creativity. Fans of Disney, anime, and musical adventures alike are in for a treat.
