Following last year’s billion dollar hit live-action remake of Lilo & Stitch, Disney is looking to strike while the iron is hot with Moana. The studio brought the film to CinemaCon with stars Dwayne Johnson and Catherine Laga’aia.
Johnson, who is returning to the role of the demigod Maui from the 2016 animated film and its 2024 sequel, shared his deep personal connection to the character. “I lived with this character of Maui for 10-plus years,” he explained. “The animated version was just an amazing experience for us as Polynesian people.” He revealed that the character was heavily influenced by his own grandfather, even sharing a photo of the late High Chief with the audience, saying, “This is for you, High Chief.”
Johnson explained his motivation for bringing the story to life in a new format. “There’s something special and important [when] you take animation into live-action. We’re able to showcase our Pacific island, real people, and it’s humbling and inspiring all at once.”
He also took a moment to praise his new co-star, Catherine Laga’aia, who will be playing Moana. “All men of all ages, we should champion and support all women.”
Laga’aia, an Australian actress, joined him on stage and shared her own excitement. “I grew up watching Moana with my family, so to be a part of her experience, I’m incredibly excited.”
The audience was then treated to a new trailer. In one scene, Moana is told, “Moana, the ocean chose you.” The footage also shows her first encounter with Maui, who tells her, “Don’t worry, Maui always has time for fans.” He later exclaims, “Let’s go save the world.”
The film is being described as a “reimagining” of the original Oscar-nominated movie, which was a massive success for Disney, earning over $600 million worldwide, while its 2024 sequel broke the $1 billion mark.
Joining Lagaʻaia and Johnson in the cast are John Tui as Moana’s father, Chief Tui; Frankie Adams as her mother, Sina; and Rena Owen as her grandmother, Gramma Tala. The film is directed by Thomas Kail, known for his work on Hamilton. Johnson is also serving as a producer alongside Dany Garcia, Beau Flynn, Hiram Garcia, and Lin-Manuel Miranda. Auliʻi Cravalho, the original voice of Moana, is on board as an executive producer.
The movie will feature the original music by Miranda, Opetaia Foaʻi, and Mark Mancina. Moana is scheduled to be released in theaters on July 10.
