Dwayne Johnson Cast as Maui in Disney’s Live-Action “Moana” Adaptation
Disney is bringing the magic of Moana to life with a highly anticipated live-action adaptation, and Dwayne Johnson is set to reprise his role as Maui. The 2024 film, titled Moana 2, promises to build upon the beloved 2016 animated classic.
Set on the Polynesian island of Motunui, the story begins with the goddess Te Fiti, who once used her heart—a rock imbued with life-giving power—to nourish the ocean. Maui, a shape-shifting demigod and master navigator, once
stole Te Fiti’s heart to bestow creation powers upon humanity. However, his theft triggered Te Fiti’s dissolution and a fierce attack by Te Ka, a mountain demon. In the ensuing chaos, Maui loses his magic and his heart falls into the abyss.
A millennium later, Moana, the daughter of the Motunui chieftain Tui, is chosen by the ocean to restore Te Fiti’s heart. But her journey is fraught with obstacles, including her father’s disapproval and attempts to keep her from the ocean, as well as her preparation for leadership on the island.
The 2016 original Moana was a groundbreaking 3D animated musical adventure from Walt Disney Animation Studios. Directed by Ron Clements and John Musker, and co-directed by Don Hall and Chris Williams, it featured Auliʻi Cravalho as Moana and Dwayne Johnson as Maui, alongside voices from Rachel House, Temuera Morrison, Jemaine Clement, Nicole Scherzinger, and Alan Tudyk. The film’s memorable soundtrack was created by Lin-Manuel Miranda, Opetaia Foa’i, and Mark Mancina.
With Dwayne Johnson back as Maui, Moana 2 is set to bring a fresh, live-action spin to the enchanting world of Motunui, blending captivating storytelling with epic adventure.