Dwayne Johnson aims to take the iconic character, Maui, from animation to the real world with a new live-action Moana movie. In fact, Disney’s reimagining of the 2016 film has already started production in Hawaii. Furthermore, photos from the set show Johnson, dressed in character, filming numerous scenes on a beach with a boat used for filming.
Glimpses of Upcoming Live-Action Film
Wednesday, November 20th, found Johnson on set, wearing Maui’s traditional attire and appearance, including a grass skirt, long black wig, and distinctive tattoos. During a shareholder meeting, Disney and Johnson first announced Moana’s live-action adaptation in April 2023. Besides Johnson, the character, Moana’s original voice actress, Auli’i Cravalho was enlisted as an executive producer. Additionally, newcomer Catherine Laga’aia will replace Cravalho in the title role, starring alongside Johnson, in the live-action version of the 2016 film.
Following her casting announcement in June, Laga’aia expressed excitement about playing the role. Notable, she credits two reasons she joined the film, the first being that the character is one of her favorites. Secondly, Laha’aia shares a personal connection to the story based on her family background. While her grandfather was born in Savai’i’s Fa’aala, Palauli, her grandmother hails from Leulumoega Tuai, specifically Samao’s main island, ‘Upolu. To make the role more meaningful, the actress aims to honor the Somoa and every Pacific Island community and traditions, while representing young girls of similar backgrounds.
Original Announcement
In July, Dwayne Johnson officially announced the production of the live-action version would start in August. Not only that but the action star also revealed additional details regarding the cast. Alongside Johnson, several talented actors and actresses joined the film, including John Tsu, who will play Moana’s father, Chief Tui. Other cast members include Frankie Adams, portraying Moana’s Mother, Sina, and Rena Owen who will bring Moana’s Grandmother, Gramma Tala, to the big screen.
Two New Moana Projects
Overall, Disney is expanding the franchise with two new projects. The animated film, Moana 2, finds Auli’i Cravalho reprising her voice as the titular character. Following the Polynesian Disney princess once again, this film promises to further the stories of these beloved characters. Meanwhile, Johnson is focused on generating fan excitement for Moana 2, sharing photos of the film set on Instagram. Additionally, he expressed his gratitude for its anticipation, which is scheduled to be released in theaters on November 27. Alongside the animated sequel, filming with the live-action version has also begun and is set to release in theaters on July 10, 2026.
The 2016 Animated Film
Disney released the original animated film in 2016 with directors Ron Clements and John Muskerat. As part of an impressive voice cast, Dwayne Johnson and the debuting Auli’i Cravalho took center stage as the film’s main characters. Furthermore, actors and actresses, including Rachel House, Nicole Scherzinger, and Temuera Morrison, rounded out the ensemble cast.
Equally impressive, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Mark Mancina, and Opetaia Foa’i wrote the original songs of the film’s soundtracks. Specifically, Mancina comprised the film’s original musical orchestral score as well. The animated story takes place in ancient Polynesia, following a strongly determined girl, chosen by the ocean to return a mystical relic to the goddess, Te Fiti. The disappearance of this relic risks destroying her island, leading to Moana setting sail to find the legendary demigod, Maui, and save her people.
Final Thoughts
Released on November 23 in the U.S., Moani received worldwide critical acclaim. Mainly, audiences and critics enjoyed the film for its outstanding vocal performances, catchy music, and stunning animation. Due to its acclaim, the film made over $687 million globally, making it a commercial success. At the same time, 2016 was a historic year for Walt Disney Animation Studios as they released two films in the same year, Moana and Zootopia, which they hadn’t done since 2002. Lastly, the animated movie would receive two Acadamy Awards, including Best Original Song and Best Animated Feature, of that year.
