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Over its 100-year history, The Walt Disney Company has brought to life some of the most iconic princesses in film, from Snow White and Cinderella to Sleeping Beauty, Ariel from The Little Mermaid (1989), Belle from Beauty and the Beast (1991), Tiana from The Princess and the Frog (2009), and more. In 2016, Disney introduced its first Polynesian princess, Moana, in the critically acclaimed animated film of the same name.
The movie follows Moana, the adventurous daughter of a village chief from Motunui, who feels an undeniable calling to the ocean, despite her father’s warnings to stay within the safety of their island.
Credit: Disney
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When a mysterious darkness threatens her home, Moana bravely sets sail beyond the reef in search of the legendary demigod Maui. Together, they embark on an exciting adventure to restore the heart of Te Fiti, a powerful goddess whose stolen artifact holds the key to saving Moana’s people and their way of life.
Moana was an instant success, earning nearly $700 million at the global box office. Despite being released in 2016, it remained the most-streamed movie on Disney+ in 2023.
In April 2023, Dwayne Johnson, who voiced Maui in the original film, announced that a live-action remake was in the works. The news sparked mixed reactions—some Disney fans are weary of the live-action trend, while others are eager to see Moana brought to life in a new way.
Credit: Disney
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The live-action Moana is scheduled to hit theaters on July 10, 2026, with production currently underway on the shores of Oahu, Hawaii.
Recently, set photos from the upcoming live-action adaptation of Moana surfaced online, sparking mixed responses from fans. The stills feature Dwayne Johnson reprising his iconic role as Maui and introduce Catherine Laga’aia as Moana.
Johnson’s return as Maui ties back to his substantial popularity in the animated version, where he contributed not only his voice but also his physical charisma and presence. Laga’aia, a relatively unknown actress with Samoan heritage, has expressed her enthusiasm for taking on the beloved character of Moana, a role that allows her to connect deeply with her cultural roots.
Credit: Walt Disney Animation Studios
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The reactions to Dwayne Johnson’s portrayal of live-action Maui have been varied. Some fans were thrilled to see the actor in character, donning Maui’s distinctive leaf skirt and tattoos.
Looks like The Rock was born to play Maui!
🌺 Can’t wait for the adventure!
Looks like The Rock was born to play Maui!
🌺 Can’t wait for the adventure!— Rakesh barupal (@MrRakeshbarupal) November 21, 2024
Comments indicated confusion over why Disney would opt for a bodysuit when Johnson’s own physique is already impressive. Some social media users pointed out that this might detract from the character’s representation.
lol imagine how the rock felt when they told him they had to give him a body suit because he wasn’t jacked enough 🤣
lol imagine how the rock felt when they told him they had to give him a body suit because he wasn’t jacked enough 🤣
— Brandon Howard (@BrandingHoward) November 21, 2024
Adding to the chatter around Live-Action Moana is the imminent release of Moana 2, which is scheduled to premiere on November 27, 2024, just under a year before the live-action version hits theaters on July 10, 2026.
Live action Moana film??? Can they slow down already. Moana 2 is literally coming out in 9 days
Live action Moana film??? Can they slow down already. Moana 2 is literally coming out in 9 days
— Adam Owns 6 (@AdamOwns6) November 20, 2024
Moana 2 is set to premiere in theaters on November 27, 2024, just in time for the day before Thanksgiving. Industry experts predict it could become Disney’s biggest movie of the year, which is a bold claim given that Inside Out 2, released in June, grossed over $1 billion worldwide. However, while Moana 2 was always anticipated to be a success, Inside Out 2 was a surprise blockbuster.
Are you excited about Disney’s live-action Moana remake? Or do you think Disney needs to ease up on the live-action remakes? Let us know in the comments!
