Disney says "You're Welcome" with Poster, Trailer and Featurette of Live-Action 'Moana'
Disney Debuts First Look at Catherine Lagaʻaia and Dwayne Johnson in their most recent Reimagining.
Disney has officially ramped up the excitement for its live-action reimagining of "Moana" by releasing a brand-new trailer, poster, and a behind-the-scenes featurette titled "Artistry of Moana." The film stars Catherine Laga‘aia as the titular wayfinder and features Dwayne Johnson returning to his iconic role as the demigod Maui. This new look at the production includes commentary from the cast and director Thomas Kail, highlighting the creative effort behind the project's costumes and choreography.
The cast is further rounded out by John Tui as Chief Tui, Frankie Adams as Sina, and Rena Owen as Gramma Tala. The production boasts a high-profile creative team, with Lin-Manuel Miranda returning to provide original songs alongside Opetaia Foa‘i and Mark Mancina. Additionally, Auli‘i Cravalho, the original voice of Moana, serves as an executive producer on this new version.
Directed by Thomas Kail, known for his work on "Hamilton," the film is set to be a major theatrical event. This project continues Disney’s long-standing tradition of translating its beloved animated classics into live-action spectacles, joining the ranks of successful hits like ‘The Lion King’ and ‘The Little Mermaid.’
Like many of their remakes, traditionalists will question why are we remaking one of Disney’s classics, and especially why so soon. Most of the live-action ‘reimaginings’ are barely reimagined, and pale in comparison to the original. The trailer even reveals the more artistic and fantasty-driven elements such as the giant evil crab, Tamatoa, and Te kā, the monstrous lava titan who Maui and Moana have to battle along the way. Needless to say, they are an excellent visual representation of how the appeared in the animated original. Reassuring for fans, borderline unnecessary for others.
While some joke about his appearance as a live-action Maui, Johnson’s return to the role is generally seen as a high point, with fans curious to see his "larger-than-life energy" in person. Catherine Lagaʻaia's casting as Moana has been met with curiosity and initial praise for her cultural connection, though many still express disappointment that original voice actress Auliʻi Cravalho (who is executive producing) did not return for the role.
Despite any criticism or skepticism, the trailer has already amassed nearly 750,000 views already since it’s debut this morning.