The ocean calls Moana again to relive an adventure, but this time in a version live-actionwhich will take her beyond the reef of Motunui Island, where she will encounter the infamous demigod Maui, with whom she will face challenges to restore Motunui’s prosperity.
The film, soon to be released, seeks to repeat the success of its animated version, which in 2016 reached a gross of US$643 million worldwide. The production, starring Catherine Lagaʻaia as Moana and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson as Maui, will take audiences into the mysteries of the island of Motunui.
Director Thomas Kail presents this new proposal and noted that he hopes the story will infect the public, guided by the spirit and passion of Moana. The film delves into the origins of the young Polynesian woman, who is called by the ocean to confront various villains and save her people.
Thomas Kail debuts as a feature film director with Moana and highlighted the enthusiasm he feels for the premiere of this film, which conveys a powerful message, as it shows that “you can feel afraid and be brave at the same time, and I think that’s what this film is about.”
The director also responded to whether this new version of Moana can become a role model for girls. In this regard, he noted: “You are not special because you are a leader. You are special because of who you are, for being yourself and understanding who you are,” he said.
Dwayne Johnson: “It’s culture, and it’s also opportunity”
This new version brings Dwayne Johnson, known as “The Rock,” back to the franchise. Moanathis time not only to give him a voice, but to play Maui. In an interview with EFE, he pointed out that this character represents the most special tribute he can pay to his grandfather.
It was Peter Maivia who inspired the Disney character that appeared in the first installment.
“I know that I will never again have an opportunity like this to play a role that shows my grandfather in this way, and that is so deeply connected to my grandfather’s culture… So I don’t take it for granted. It’s really beautiful,” the actor noted.
Another special aspect of this film, according to Johnson, is that it provides the opportunity to give visibility to Polynesian culture. The actor highlighted that “when I was a child, I didn’t see myself on the big screen. I didn’t see someone with brown skin, or any color. And it’s not that it matters that much, but it does matter and it means something.”
The film follows the journey of teenager Moana, played by Catherine Lagaʻaia, through the Pacific Islands, after being chosen by the ocean to return a mystical relic along with the charismatic demigod Maui (Johnson).
Representation of Polynesian communities
Actress Catherine Lagaʻaia shared with EFE that the film manages to offer a more authentic representation of Polynesian communities, since it presents real people and the landscapes of these islands.
“I think we’re having the opportunity to celebrate who we really are as flesh and blood people,” the actress added.
The filming does not focus on a single island. The director highlighted that it represents scenes from Tahiti, Tonga, Samoa and the Cook Islands.
When does it premiere in Guatemala?
The film, another of Disney’s bets to adapt one of its productions to the format live-actionwill premiere next July 9. Various cinema chains already have pre-sale tickets available.