The Full Moana Live-Action Cast Revealed: 5 Polynesian Stars Bringing The Legend To Life
Contents
The Confirmed Main Cast: A Full List of Polynesian Stars
The live-action *Moana* features a cast that is a celebration of talent from across the Pacific, including Australia, New Zealand, Samoa, and Tonga. Here is the complete list of the main cast members who will be joining Dwayne Johnson in this epic adventure.Catherine Lagaʻaia as Moana
- Role: Moana, the adventurous and determined daughter of the village chief.
- Nationality/Heritage: Australian, with Samoan and Māori heritage.
- Notable Works: This role marks Catherine Lagaʻaia’s first major feature film appearance, launching her career onto the global stage.
- Key Detail: At 18 years old, Lagaʻaia was officially announced as the titular hero in June 2024. She is the daughter of actor Jay Lagaʻaia, known for his roles in the *Star Wars* prequels.
Dwayne Johnson as Maui
- Role: Maui, the charismatic, shape-shifting demigod of the wind and sea.
- Nationality/Heritage: American, with Samoan heritage.
- Notable Works: *The Fast and the Furious* franchise, *Jumanji* franchise, *Black Adam*, and the original voice of Maui in the 2016 animated film.
- Key Detail: Johnson is reprising his iconic role, not just as an actor but also as a producer, having been instrumental in developing the live-action project since its announcement in April 2023.
Rena Owen as Gramma Tala
- Role: Gramma Tala, Moana's eccentric and spiritually connected grandmother, the keeper of the village's forgotten history.
- Nationality/Heritage: New Zealander, of Māori descent.
- Notable Works: *Once Were Warriors* (as Beth Heke, a role that earned her international acclaim), *Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones*, and the TV series *Siren*.
- Key Detail: Owen is a veteran actress whose powerful performances, particularly in *Once Were Warriors*, make her a deeply respected figure in New Zealand and international cinema, bringing gravitas to the role of the revered elder.
John Tui as Chief Tui
- Role: Chief Tui, Moana’s overprotective, no-nonsense father and the respected leader of Motunui Island.
- Nationality/Heritage: New Zealander, of Tongan descent.
- Notable Works: *Power Rangers S.P.D.* (as Commander Anubis "Doggie" Cruger), *The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies*, and New Zealand TV series like *Shortland Street*.
- Key Detail: Tui is a familiar face in the world of television and film, known for his commanding presence and extensive background in action and drama.
Frankie Adams as Sina
- Role: Sina, Moana’s supportive, warm, and pragmatic mother.
- Nationality/Heritage: Samoan New Zealander.
- Notable Works: The science-fiction television series *The Expanse* (as Roberta 'Bobbie' Draper), and the New Zealand soap opera *Shortland Street*.
- Key Detail: Adams is a former amateur boxer who transitioned to acting, bringing a compelling blend of strength and warmth to her roles, which will be perfect for the grounding force that is Sina.
The Vision: Why This Live-Action Remake is Different
The production team behind the *Moana* live-action film has made several key decisions that set it apart from other Disney remakes, prioritizing cultural stewardship and a unique creative direction.A Hamilton Director Taking the Helm
The film is being directed by Thomas Kail, a Tony Award-winning director best known for helming the groundbreaking Broadway musical *Hamilton* and its Disney+ film version. Kail’s involvement is significant because of his deep familiarity with musical storytelling and his previous collaborations with Lin-Manuel Miranda, who wrote the original songs for *Moana*. This background suggests the live-action version will have a strong emphasis on the musical numbers, translating the vibrant energy of the original songs to the big screen with a theatrical flair.The Authentic Storytelling Team
A major element of authenticity comes from the writers. The live-action script is being penned by Jared Bush, who wrote the screenplay for the 2016 animated film, and Dana Ledoux Miller, a Samoan writer known for her work on *The Expanse*. This ensures continuity with the original story while injecting new, culturally informed perspectives into the narrative. The combination of the original writer and a new Samoan voice promises a respectful yet fresh exploration of the story and its themes of identity, exploration, and environmental stewardship.Auliʻi Cravalho’s New Role
While Auliʻi Cravalho, the original voice of Moana, will not be reprising her role, she remains a vital part of the production as an executive producer. Cravalho has stated that her new role is to ensure the film remains faithful to the spirit of the story and that the casting is authentic, passing the torch to the next generation of Pacific Islander performers. This transition underscores the film's commitment to empowering young Polynesian talent like Catherine Lagaʻaia.Anticipated Themes and Production Details
The live-action remake is expected to explore the central themes of the original film—the journey of self-discovery, the importance of cultural heritage, and the connection to the ocean—but with the added realism and visual scope that a live-action production allows. The film's production is a massive undertaking, utilizing the stunning natural landscapes of the Pacific to create the world of Motunui. Fans are eager to see how the fantastical elements, such as the shape-shifting Maui and the fiery Te Kā, will be realized using modern visual effects. The early teaser trailer, released in late 2025, gave audiences a first glimpse of the stunning cinematography and the powerful presence of the new cast. The choice of the main cast members—all of whom have strong ties to the Pacific—is a powerful statement on cultural representation in Hollywood. By featuring actors from Samoan, Tongan, and Māori backgrounds, the film is not just a remake but a celebration of the diverse cultures that inspired the original story. The involvement of cultural consultants and the commitment of Dwayne Johnson to the project’s authenticity are key factors that have generated immense positive buzz among fans and cultural commentators alike. With a release date set for July 10, 2026, the *Moana* live-action film is poised to be one of Disney’s most significant and culturally meaningful remakes, promising a spectacular and heartfelt cinematic experience.Detail Author:
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