"I don’t even consider him a character," Johnson stated in remarks made recently. "I consider him just part of the culture and lore of Polynesian culture, so it just becomes very natural." The actor, who voiced Maui in the 2016 animated original and reprises the role in the upcoming live-action remake, shared his perspective during a June 29 livestream event alongside co-star Catherine Laga’aia and director Thomas Kail.
Johnson, who is of Samoan descent has consistently treated the role as a tribute to his late grandfather, Samoan high chief Peter Maivia. For the live-action version, Johnson expressed a desire to embody Maui’s vulnerability, not just his bravado. He highlighted Maui's backstory of abandonment and the character's eventual display of this wound, influenced by Moana.
Newcomer Catherine Laga’aia, taking on the title role, also shared a personal connection to the character, crediting Moana with shaping her own growth. "Getting to see and have that representation so young was definitely part of the reason I’ve grown up to be so much like her," Laga’aia said of the character’s ambition, courage, and curiosity.
Director Thomas Kail, making his feature film debut after success on Broadway and television, recalled the extensive search for the lead role, which saw over 32,000 tape submissions. Laga’aia's rendition of "How Far I’ll Go" stood out, with Kail noting her understanding of the song's yearning.
Kail and Johnson reportedly aimed to create an environment where Laga’aia, as a young actor stepping into a major role, could embrace the daunting aspects of the performance. "We felt like, let this young woman step on this set and do the scared thing," Johnson said, emphasizing support for the newcomer.
Featured names
- Dwayne Johnson
- Actor Dwayne
- Published Jul
- Catherine Laga
- Peter Maivia
- Actress Catherine
