Disney’s Moana renamed in Italy reportedly to 'avoid confusion with famous porn star'

Moana Pozzi was a famous pornographic actor in the country

Moana is a shining example of Disney’s move to present empowering female roles in their films

Disney’s Moana looks set to round off an incredible year for animated film, following Zootopia, Kubo and the Two Strings, and Finding Dory.

Like the aforementioned Zootopia (released in various countries under the name Zootropolis), Moana will have numerous names depending on location.

In Italy, for instance, the film will be released under the name Oceania, after the geographical location, rather than Moana, after the film’s lead character voiced by Auli'i Cravalho.

Various reports have questioned whether the name change has happened due to avoid confusion with a famous pornographic actress.

Moana Pozzi, who died in 1994 aged 33, was a popular figure in Italy, known throughout the country by people of all ages and genders. Numerous biopics about Pozzi’s life have been released, including Guardami directed by Davide Ferrario.

Whether the reports are true remains to be seen: Cartoonbrew.com were reportedly contacted by a blogger who said Pozzi "played a big part in the decision" to rename the movie, as detailed by The Telegraph.

Earlier this year, The Independent debuted a hilarious clip featuring Flight of the Conchords actor Jermaine Clement who features in the animated film.

Moana arrives in UK cinemas on 2 December