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Dwayne Johnson Reveals Live-Action Moana's Cultural Impact at CinemaCon

Dwayne Johnson has offered a preview of the upcoming live-action "Moana" film at CinemaCon, highlighting its role in sharing Polynesian culture with a global audience. He introduced Catherine Laga'aia, who will star as the titular warrior, not a princess, in the film directed by Thomas Kail. Johnson revealed that his character, Maui, was deeply inspired by his own grandfather, High Chief Peter Maivia. The film is scheduled for release in theaters this July.

Key Points: Dwayne Johnson on Live-Action Moana's Cultural Impact

  • Live-action adaptation of 2016 Disney film
  • Directed by Thomas Kail
  • Introduces Catherine Laga'aia as Moana
  • Maui inspired by Johnson's grandfather
  • Film releases in theaters this July
3 min read

Dwayne Johnson: Thanks to 'Moana', we've had privilege of bringing people closer to our culture

Dwayne Johnson shares how 'Moana' brings global audiences closer to Polynesian culture and introduces new star Catherine Laga'aia.

Dwayne Johnson: Thanks to 'Moana', we've had privilege of bringing people closer to our culture
"Thanks to Moana, we have had the privilege of bringing people from all over the world closer to our culture. - Dwayne Johnson"

Mumbai, April 23

Dwayne Johnson has given a sneak peek into the world of the live-action "Moana," which will feature newbie Catherine Laga'aia in the title role. The Hollywood star credits the film for bringing people from all over the world closer to the Polynesian culture, traditions, and heritage.

Moana is the live-action adaptation of Disney Animation's 2016 film and the third installment in the Moana franchise. It is directed by Thomas Kail in his feature directorial debut.

Johnson shared a glimpse from the CinemaCon, where he spoke about the film and Laga'aia. He posted a video on Instagram, where he is heard saying: "It is my privilege to bring live-action Moana to theaters this summer. Younger generation of Polynesian young girls, young boys, just Polynesian people like, that's us."

"That's us up there on that big screen. Thanks to Moana, we have had the privilege of bringing people from all over the world closer to our culture, our traditions, and our heritage."

"That's why revisiting this story in a live-action way, I feel, is so important. And it's brilliant beings. And it's flesh, and it's blood. And it's Moana."

At CinemaCon, Johnson revealed that the character of Maui was deeply inspired by his grandfather, the High Chief Peter Maivia.

"This is my grandfather, and he inspired the character of Maui. I'm going to hold this up, and I bet you the cameras can zoom in. I love you too. Thank you for saying that, I appreciate it. That's my family over there, guys. Every word, every, you're welcome," he said as he showcased the picture of his grandfather.

Johnson then went on to introduce the "hero" of his story and said she "is not a princess".

"She is a warrior who is empowered and supported by this demigod known as Maui. All men, of all ages, we should empower and support and champion already. That's what real masculinity looks like. Please welcome your rising star, my friend, and our Moana, Catherine."

Laga'aia sad that she can't believe I get this experience. "I'm thrilled for audiences who are going to see the movie in theaters this July."

In the caption section, Johnson wrote: "In MOANA there's family values, ethos and work ethic that all cultures (earth emoji) resonate with - and bringing the world closer to our Polynesian culture has become the best part of this journey."

"I got the coolest job in the world for our upcoming MOANA world tour, as I get to introduce you to the hero of our story @catherinelagaaia. Not a princess, but a warrior. I'm just the demigod dude who runs around yelling CHEE HOOO, with a Mini-Maui tattoo that comes alive. Whatevs

We'll see you on tour."

- IANS

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Reader Comments

A
Arjun K
Respect to The Rock for this. His point about "real masculinity" being about empowering and supporting others is spot on. We need more of that message everywhere, not just in movies. Also, connecting Maui to his grandfather is such a lovely, personal touch.
R
Rohit P
The original Moana was fantastic. I hope this live-action version does justice to the animation and doesn't just feel like a cash grab. Fingers crossed they keep the soul of the story intact. The casting of a newcomer is interesting!
S
Sarah B
As someone who loved the original, I'm excited but also a bit skeptical. Disney's live-action remakes have been hit or miss. But Johnson's passion is infectious. If the focus is truly on culture and heritage, and not just spectacle, it could be special. July release is perfect for the holidays!
K
Karthik V
"Family values, ethos and work ethic that all cultures resonate with" - he's absolutely right. At its core, good storytelling about family and duty transcends borders. My kids adore the songs from the first film. Hope the new one has some memorable music too! 🎵
M
Meera T
It's wonderful to see indigenous cultures getting this kind of global spotlight. Makes me think about the rich diversity of stories we have here in India that could be shared with the world in a similar, respectful way. More power to the team!

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