What Can We Say About a Live-Action ‘Moana’ Movie Except It’s Happening!
Live-action remakes of beloved Disney movies aren’t just for the ’90s renaissance anymore! Even though it feels like the film was in theaters yesterday, the 2016 animated film Moana will indeed get a live-action remake too, per Deadline.
First announced at a shareholder meeting, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson (who voiced Maui in the original movie) revealed news of the upcoming remake on his Instagram in April 2023, prior to the release of Disney’s latest live-action remake of The Little Mermaid. His post was an enthusiastic endorsement as well:
“Deeply humbled to announce we’re bringing the beautiful story of Moana to the live-action big screen! This story is my culture, and this story is emblematic of our people’s grace, mana, and warrior strength. I wear our culture proudly on my skin and in my soul, and this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to reunite with Maui, inspired by the spirit of my late grandfather High Chief Peter Maivia is one that runs very deep for me. We’re honored to partner with @DisneyStudios to tell our story through the realm of music and dance, which at the core is who we are as Polynesian people. Much more to come, but until then what can I saaaaaay except…you’re welcome.”
Auli’i Cravalho, who voiced Moana in the original animated movie, confirmed the news on her own account, saying it had been “whispered about for years.” Are there any other whispers? Here’s what we know.
When is the Moana live-action movie coming out?
The Rock’s announcement confirmed the film is still in very early stages (and he’s also got some Fast and Furious movies coming down the pike), so expect it to be a few years until we have a firm release date.
Who is going to be in the Moana live-action movie? Is Auli’i playing Moana?
Well, we know that Auli’i won’t reprise her titular role in the live-action movie. About a month after the film was announced, she explained on Instagram that she is involved but will not be playing Moana. Instead, she’s looking forward to welcoming another Pacific Islander to the role. Auli’i is signed on as an executive producer though! And that honestly rules. Her perspective is invaluable, and IMHO, she should see some of the profits!
Will there be new songs in the Moana remake?
Probably? It feels like Disney movie musical adaptations can’t resist the opportunity to include a new song. I actually wouldn’t be surprised if there were some decent cut songs that could be added back in, but it’s all too early for any of that to be public knowledge.
Dang, anything else?
Your mileage may vary with these remakes. It may seem like a trend that’s burning out fast…but at the same time, some of them are really good! This has the potential to be gorgeous and amazing. One thing I will say: At least Moana doesn’t really have any talking animals. If the hyperrealistic CGI critters in The Jungle Book, The Lion King, and The Little Mermaid squicked you out, you won’t have to worry about that here.
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