Another of Disney's grandest animated films is about to come alive in a live-action adaptation as Moana takes the stage. Dwayne Johnson, the star, graced the CinemaCon presentation in Las Vegas on Thursday to debut fresh footage of the film.
"I've lived with the character of Maui for over ten years," Johnson said, reprising his role as the demigod from the 2016 animated original and its 2024 sequel. "The animated version was a truly extraordinary experience for us Polynesians." He added, "The character of Maui was deeply inspired by my grandfather." As he shared a photo of his late grandfather on his phone, the crowd applauded. "This is for you, High Chief."
When asked why he wanted to bring this property to life in live-action, Johnson explained, "There's something special and significant about bridging animation and live-action. We're able to showcase our Pacific island and real people, all at once, it's both humbling and inspiring." He expressed his pride in starring alongside newcomer Catherine Laga'aia in the title role: "All men of all ages, we should support and champion all women."
Laga'aia, the Australian actress, gushed when she took the stage, "I grew up watching Moana with my family, so to be a part of her journey, I'm incredibly excited." The pair debuted a new trailer from the film that includes a moment where Moana is told, "The ocean chose you." The footage shows Moana meeting Maui, with the latter assuring her, "Don't worry, Maui always has time for fans." Later, he declares, "Let's go save the world."
Laga'aia takes on the role of Moana, the wayfinder, while Johnson reprises his role as the trickster demigod Maui. The cast also includes John Tui as Moana's father, Chief Tui; Frankie Adams as Moana's mother, Sina; and Rena Owen as Moana's Gramma Tala.
Disney is calling this film a "reimagining" of the Oscar-nominated original released in 2016. The first movie grossed over $600 million worldwide, with the 2024 sequel surpassing $1 billion. The live-action version is directed by Thomas Kail (Hamilton), with Johnson, Dany Garcia, Beau Flynn, Hiram Garcia, and Lin-Manuel Miranda as producers. Kail is also an executive producer along with Scott Sheldon, Charles Newirth, and Auli'i Cravalho, who voiced Moana in both the animated Moana and its sequel. The film features original songs by Miranda, Opetaia Foa'i, and Mark Mancina, with an original score composed by Mancina. It's set to hit theaters on July 10.
