Disney’s live-action adaptations of animated classics have been met with a mixture of excitement and skepticism. Following the success of The Jungle Book, Beauty and the Beast, and Aladdin, the next beloved film to undergo a live-action makeover is Moana, the 2016 animated hit that captivated audiences worldwide with its vibrant storytelling, stunning animation, and unforgettable soundtrack. But this time, it’s not just the ocean that will be alive—it’s the star-studded cast that’s making waves.
Arguably, the most exciting part of the Moana live-action adaptation is the confirmed casting of Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and Zendaya. These two Hollywood heavyweights bring not only star power but also deep personal connections to the material, making them perfect for their roles.
Dwayne Johnson, who voiced the demigod Maui in the original animated film, will reprise his role in the live-action version. Johnson, whose heritage traces back to the Pacific Islands, has expressed his deep pride in bringing the Polynesian culture to the forefront with Moana. His role as Maui, a mischievous yet ultimately good-hearted figure, is a perfect fit for the actor’s charm, physicality, and charisma. The Rock’s involvement in the live-action film is seen as an opportunity to honor Polynesian culture and mythology with the respect it deserves while also giving his character the depth and layers that a live-action adaptation allows.
On the other hand, Zendaya has been cast as Moana herself. Zendaya, known for her roles in Euphoria and Spider-Man: No Way Home, is an ideal choice for the adventurous and brave Moana. Not only does Zendaya possess the acting chops to portray a character who embarks on a life-changing journey of self-discovery, but her dedication to representing strong, diverse female characters on screen has earned her a legion of fans. Moana, like Zendaya, is determined, courageous, and unapologetically herself—a perfect reflection of Zendaya’s own off-screen persona.
The live-action Moana is expected to closely follow the storyline of the original 2016 animated film, which tells the tale of a young Polynesian girl named Moana Waialiki. Set in ancient Oceania, Moana is chosen by the ocean to restore the heart of Te Fiti, a mystical artifact that was stolen by the demigod Maui, plunging the world into darkness and imbalance. With the help of Maui, Moana embarks on a dangerous journey across the seas, facing challenges, discovering her true calling, and proving that she is capable of greatness.
While much of the plot remains the same, the live-action adaptation will bring a new visual flair, combining cutting-edge CGI with breathtaking natural landscapes. Filming is expected to take place on location in the beautiful islands of the Pacific, offering an authentic backdrop that will give audiences a true sense of the region’s culture and beauty. This is a great opportunity for Disney to showcase the splendor of the Pacific Islands and immerse viewers in a world of crystal-clear waters, lush jungles, and dramatic seascapes.
With the live-action format, there will also be room for new details and potentially some changes to the story, allowing for a fresh take on Moana’s character development and her relationship with Maui. Expect stunning action sequences, including epic battles between Moana and the elements, along with emotional moments that deepen the connection between Moana and her ancestors.
One of the highlights of the 2016 animated film was its memorable soundtrack, composed by Lin-Manuel Miranda, Opetaia Foa’i, and Mark Mancina. Songs like “How Far I’ll Go,” “You’re Welcome,” and “We Know the Way” became instant classics, and it’s likely that the live-action adaptation will retain much of the original music.
While Dwayne Johnson has already proven himself as a talented performer with his musical number “You’re Welcome,” Zendaya, known for her singing abilities, will bring her own vocal energy to Moana’s iconic ballads. It’s expected that the live-action version will feature both familiar tunes as well as potentially new songs to further develop the characters and bring added depth to the narrative.
One of the most significant challenges and opportunities in bringing Moana to life in a live-action format is the responsibility Disney has to handle the culture and mythology of the Pacific Islands with authenticity and respect. While the original animated film was praised for its cultural representation, it also came under scrutiny from some critics who questioned whether Disney had fully consulted with Pacific Islander communities.
In the live-action version, the involvement of Pacific Islander consultants, as well as the casting of talent like Dwayne Johnson, who shares roots in the region, indicates that Disney is taking these concerns seriously. The production team is likely to focus on working closely with cultural experts to ensure that the storytelling remains rooted in Pacific Islander traditions, giving the movie a level of authenticity that is both respectful and true to the original source material.