Dwayne Johnson recently traveled to Brazil to promote the live-action adaptation of Moana. During a press conference, Johnson shared personal reflections on fatherhood, drawing parallels between his own life and the film's themes.
Johnson, who reprises his role as Maui, discussed how Moana has become more than just an adventure story. He emphasized its narrative on family, loss, ancestry, and the parental challenge of accepting when children are ready to navigate the world independently. As a father of three daughters, Johnson revealed he has had to adjust his protective instincts. He stated, “I’m a protective father. But I’ve learned that my daughters have to make their own decisions. And if they fail, that’s okay. I’ll be there to help them get back up.”
He elaborated on the film's central tension, where Moana's father fears her venturing beyond their island's safety, a sentiment Johnson recognizes in himself. He noted that protecting without preventing and guiding without controlling are key parental anxieties. Johnson believes the story's message about trying and the potential for failure or discovery of new paths remains relevant for new generations.
The actor also touched on the character of Maui, explaining that the demigod finds his true strength when he confronts his pain, a lesson Johnson sees as vital for men, asserting that vulnerability does not diminish strength. He shared a humorous anecdote about his youngest daughter, who for years refused to believe he was the voice of Maui in the animated film, only accepting it when they watched the live-action version.
Johnson became emotional discussing representation, noting that growing up without seeing heroes who looked like him makes it significant that his daughters can now see brown girls, Polynesian women, and similar families at the forefront of a major Disney film. He revealed that his mother and daughters have brief appearances in the live-action movie, a personal request to preserve a family memory. Johnson feels a deep connection to Maui, as the character was inspired by his grandfather, High Chief Peter Maivia. Portraying Maui allows Johnson to feel as though he is honoring his grandfather, mother, daughters, and Polynesian ancestry.
