Dwayne Johnson has given fans a sneak peek into the live-action remake of Disney’s 2016 hit “Moana” through a behind-the-scenes video that showcases his preparation for the project. In the Instagram clip, Johnson, who is reprising his role as the charismatic demigod Maui and serving as an executive producer, is seen in the vocal booth recording preliminary vocals for Maui’s popular song “You’re Welcome.” Johnson described the session as a “cool day of work” and praised the expertise of the artists and filmmakers involved.
The “Moana” remake is part of Disney’s ongoing trend of live-action adaptations of its animated classics, aimed at introducing these stories to a new generation and offering a fresh perspective to those familiar with the originals. The project is set to begin production this fall and follows a mixed track record of Disney’s live-action films. While some adaptations like “The Little Mermaid” (2023) have performed well at the box office, others, such as “Peter Pan & Wendy,” have faced poor critical reception and were released directly to streaming platforms.
Dwayne Johnson and Maui (Disney)
“Moana” holds promise due to several key factors. Thomas Kail, known for his work on “Hamilton” and “We Were The Lucky Ones,” will make his feature directorial debut with this film. Kail’s theatrical background and experience with expansive, emotionally driven storylines may bring a unique perspective to the remake.
The original “Moana” was celebrated for its portrayal of Polynesian culture, and the live-action adaptation aims to deepen this exploration with an authentically diverse cast. Auli’i Cravalho, who voiced Moana in the 2016 animated film, recently reflected on the character’s role in redefining Disney princesses, emphasizing bravery and resilience. Cravalho expressed excitement about the expansion of the “Moana” universe, which includes both an animated sequel and a live-action film. She highlighted how Moana changed the Disney princess narrative by embodying strength and courage.
Dwayne Johnson and Maui (Disney)
Cravalho, who will voice Moana again in the animated sequel, is also an executive producer for the live-action version. While she remains tight-lipped about the details of the live-action project, she humorously mentioned feeling Mickey Mouse “breathing down her neck.” She looks forward to finding the next actress to portray Moana.
“Moana” stands out as a potentially successful venture in Disney’s lineup of live-action remakes, promising to deliver a heartfelt and culturally rich story under the guidance of a talented team and with strong roots in its celebrated animated predecessor.
