Disney's signature animated film "Moana" is returning as a live-action movie. Ahead of a new journey that carries forward the original's emotional resonance and Polynesian culture, director Thomas Kail, along with actors Dwayne Johnson and Catherine Laga'aia, met with the Korean press at a video conference on the 29th.
"For those who love 'Moana,' we made a (live-action) film that can be a companion to that movie," Kail said that day. "While carrying on the legacy of 'Moana,' we put in our respect and tribute to those who made the animated film." While some Disney live-action films have fallen short of expectations alongside criticism of "destroying the original," "Moana" earned praise from fans of the original from the moment its casting was revealed, thanks to its high resemblance to the source material. Kail, who directed the musical "Hamilton" and swept 11 categories including Best Musical at the 70th Tony Awards, is also regarded as a director perfectly suited to "Moana," where music serves as a key emotional point.
"Moana" is an ocean adventure in which Moana and Maui set out together into uncharted waters to save the cursed island of Motunui. The animated "Moana," released in 2016, earned 640 million dollars worldwide, while "Moana 2," released last year, brought in 1.05 billion dollars, continuing the series' popularity.
The role of Moana went to Catherine Laga'aia, a Polynesian newcomer selected from a pool with odds of 32,000 to 1. "I grew up watching Moana since I was young, and I wanted to be like her boldness and courage," she said. "I also put a sense of tribute to the original into this performance." She added, "Just like Moana, who leaves familiar places to take on new challenges, I too left home for the filming, and my mother's support was a great source of strength."
Dwayne Johnson, who voiced Maui in the animated film, this time transformed into Maui himself. Johnson, who is of Polynesian Samoan heritage, explained, "Maui is a playful and brave hero, but he is also a character carrying wounds from his childhood." He added, "I wanted to express the vulnerability behind the strong masculinity." He continued, "Polynesian culture and Korean culture have many similarities, so Korean audiences will be able to relate fully," and said, "Since it is a beautiful and grand summer film, I hope many people will join us in theaters."
