The live-action film adaptation of the classic Disney animation "Moana" (directed by Thomas Kale) will be released in Japan on July 31st. To commemorate this release, two special videos have been released in collaboration with the Disney & Pixar animated film "Toy Story 5" (directed by Andrew Stanton and co-directed by Kenna Harris), which will be released in Japan on July 3rd.
In a special video commemorating the start of the campaign for the two films, Woody, Buzz Lightyear, and Jessie from the "Toy Story" series are seen happily visiting a movie theater, and for some reason, they are inside a popcorn bucket, gazing at the big screen. What catches their eye is the trailer for "Moana." Upon seeing the breathtaking scale of the live-action version of "Moana" brought to life on the screen, Woody happily mutters, "No way...!" and all three of them are glued to the screen.
It has also been announced that "Moana" and "Toy Story 5" will be given away as a special gift to moviegoers, featuring puffy stickers of both Disney films to liven up this summer. The first moviegoers to see "Moana" will receive a set of puffy stickers featuring both films. With sticker trading being so popular right now, this is a special, Japan-exclusive gift that you'll definitely want to get your hands on.
A special campaign is also being held for the two films. Those who purchase advance tickets for either of the two films can participate in a special campaign to win fantastic prizes. Winners will receive a pair of tickets to "Disney on Ice," the ice musical that has captivated over 350 million people in more than 570 cities worldwide, or a 3,000 yen gift certificate for "OH MY CAFE," a special cafe themed after the world of Disney. The deadline for entries is August 3rd.
Additionally, a special campaign, "Let's Go on an Adventure with Disney Stories This Summer: Disney Summer Movie Festival Part 2 - Watch Two Movies in Theaters Campaign," will be held exclusively for those who see both films in theaters, offering fantastic prizes to a total of 200 people. Prizes include tickets to the "Pixar World Exhibition" and original movie merchandise—items that can only be obtained through this campaign. To enter, upload a screenshot of your paid movie ticket or admission QR code for "Toy Story 5" or "Moana" to the campaign website and fill out the required information on the dedicated form. The campaign period is from July 31st to August 31st.
"Moana" tells the story of Moana, a girl with a special bond to the sea who lives on the mystical paradise island of Motunui in the South Seas. To save her beloved family and the world, she embarks on an adventurous journey across the vast ocean. She searches for the legendary demigod Maui, and together they overcome various hardships, forging her own path in life.
In the live-action film, 19-year-old rising star Lagaia, known for her "miraculous singing voice," has been cast as Moana, while Dwayne Johnson, who played the same role in the animated version, will reprise his role as Maui. It was revealed on June 23rd that Kabuki actor Matsuya Onoe will play the legendary hero Maui (Dwayne Johnson), just as he did in the animated version. The musical adventure "Moana" will be released on July 31st.
In "Toy Story 5," Jessie, a cowgirl doll who has taken over as "sheriff" in Woody's place and is the leader of the toys in Bonnie's room, has watched over the growth of the imaginative and shy girl Bonnie. When Bonnie's parents, worried that she is struggling to make friends because the other kids are moving on from toys and are engrossed in tablets, give her a state-of-the-art tablet, the "LilyPad," as a gift, her life changes completely. Worried that Bonnie's radiant smile, which used to shine when she played, is fading as she becomes absorbed in the screen, Jessie asks Woody for help. Teaming up again with Woody and Buzz, Jessie rises to the challenge of winning back Bonnie's spirit... Released in Japan on July 3rd.
