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New Moana Star Channels Childhood Dreams
1 Jul
Summary
- Teenager Catherine Laga'aia stars as Moana, inspired by her childhood self.
- Auli'i Cravalho passes the torch musically on a new Lin-Manuel Miranda song.
- Dwayne Johnson embodies Maui, connecting the role to his grandfather.
Catherine Laga'aia, who was 9 years old when the original Moana film debuted, now stars as the titular character in the upcoming live-action remake. She aimed to embody the role with her childhood self in mind, emphasizing the significance of representation for young girls.
The original Moana voice actress, Auli'i Cravalho, has musically passed the torch to Laga'aia on the new song "Along the Way," written by Lin-Manuel Miranda. This track features Laga'aia, Cravalho, and Dwayne Johnson as Maui, playing over the end credits.
Dwayne Johnson returns as Maui, a role he voiced in previous animated films. This live-action portrayal marks the first time he physically embodies the character. Johnson shared a profound connection to Maui, inspired by his grandfather, High Chief Peter Maivia, whose charisma and presence mirrored the demigod.
Johnson highlighted how the new song creates a musical dialogue between the original and new Moana films. He felt a deep personal connection to Maui, inspired by his grandfather, High Chief Peter Maivia, whose charisma and presence mirrored the demigod. Johnson expressed that embodying Maui physically, emotionally, and spiritually was overwhelming in a positive way.
