The decision by Disney to remake the 2016 animated feature "Moana" as a live-action production, officially announced in April 2023 was met with bewilderment due to the original film's recent release and continued popularity. The animated "Moana" remains one of the most-streamed titles globally and holds a significant place in the imaginations of children and families.
Dwayne Johnson himself announced the live-action project in a video from Hawaii. He confirmed his return as the voice of Maui, a character he stated was a tribute to his maternal grandfather, Samoan wrestler Peter Maivia. This announcement indicated the project was more than a standard Disney remake for Johnson.
Thomas Kail was later hired to direct the film. Kail's background, primarily in theatre with the acclaimed production "Hamilton," and his lack of prior narrative feature film directing experience, suggested Disney's intent to preserve the original story's emotional and musical qualities.
Casting and Production Details
The search for a new Moana involved over 32,000 candidates. The role ultimately went to Catherine Laga’aia, a young Australian actress of Samoan descent with limited prior on-camera experience. Auditions were conducted in both Australia and the United States, with Laga’aia being 17 at the time of casting and now 19 for her debut in the production.
Auli’i Cravalho, who voiced Moana in the 2016 animation, did not reprise her role in the live-action adaptation but took on an executive producer position. Cravalho expressed her belief that a new generation should have the opportunity to represent the character on screen.
Filming commenced in July 2024 and concluded in November of the same year. Principal photography took place across studios in Atlanta and various locations in Hawaii, with the objective of recreating the islands, ocean, and mythological dimensions of Polynesian culture on a real-world scale.
During production, several creative choices garnered fan attention, including the recasting of some characters and redesigns for the live-action format. The screenplay stayed close to the original story, and Lin-Manuel Miranda returned as a producer and musical consultant for the soundtrack.
Featured names
- Became Disney
- Fastest Live
- Action Remake
- Dwayne Johnson
- Peter Maivia
- Catherine Laga
- United States
- Manuel Miranda
