The highly-anticipated live-action rendition of Moana has officially found its leading lady. According to a report by Deadline, Catherine Laga’aia has been tapped to portray the iconic Disney heroine.
Laga’aia is joined by a star-studded cast that includes the return of Dwayne Johnson in his acclaimed role as the demigod Maui from the original animation. Additionally, John Tui is set to star as Moana’s father, Chief Tui. The lineup also sees Frankie Adams as Moana’s mother, Sina, and Rena Owen taking on the role of Gramma Tala.
For John Tui, this marks his third collaboration with Dwayne Johnson; he portrayed Afa Ano’i on Young Rock and was seen as Kal Hobbs in the action-packed film Hobbs & Shaw.
In response to her casting, Laga’aia expressed her excitement: “I’m really excited to embrace this character because Moana is one of my favorites,” she said. “My grandfather comes from Fa‘aala, Palauli, in Savai‘i. And my grandmother is from Leulumoega Tuai on the main island of ‘Upolu in Samoa. I’m honored to have an opportunity to celebrate Samoa and all Pacific Island peoples, and to represent young girls who look like me.”
Helming the project as director is Thomas Kail, with production slated to commence this summer.
FAQs about the Live-Action “Moana” Movie
- Who has been cast in the lead role of the live-action Moana?
- Catherine Laga’aia has been cast as the lead in the live-action adaptation of Moana.
- Is Dwayne Johnson involved in the live-action Moana?
- Yes, Dwayne Johnson will reprise his role as Maui, the demigod from the original animated movie.
- Who will play Moana’s parents in the live-action movie?
- John Tui will play Chief Tui, Moana’s father, and Frankie Adams will play Moana’s mother Sina.
- When is the live-action Moana expected to start production?
- Production for the live-action Moana is set to begin in the summer.
- Who is directing the live-action adaptation of Moana?
- Thomas Kail is the director for the live-action Moana movie.