Moana'S Young Star Catherine Laga’Aia On Bringing Disney'S Heroine To Life

Catherine Laga’aia’s Dream Role Comes True

Not many actors kick off their careers by stepping straight into the shoes of a beloved hero, but Catherine Laga’aia is doing just that. The young actress is set to bring Disney's iconic Moana to live action, a character she has adored since childhood. Fortunately for her, the journey from fan to star feels more like destiny than duty.

Laga’aia was only 9 when the animated Moana captivated audiences worldwide in 2016. Like countless kids, she was enchanted by the story of a girl drawn to the ocean's call. But for Laga’aia, the connection ran deep. Sharing Polynesian roots with Moana, she understood the significance of seeing her culture spotlighted in a Disney blockbuster long before she was ever cast. Now, it’s her turn to carry that legacy forward.

“Moana's courage to follow her heart, even when it means leaving everything she knows, has always inspired me," Laga’aia shared.

Catherine Laga’aia Connects With Moana’s Courage

Taking on a role as beloved as Moana is no small feat, especially with Auli’i Cravalho’s legendary performance in the original. Yet, Laga’aia is determined to breathe new life into the character, to make her feel as real and relatable as ever.

The secret? It's all about courage, compassion, and relentless determination. Moana is not about the absence of fear but about not letting doubt dictate her actions. She loves her family and her island, yet knows that protecting them might require leaving them behind. In live-action, Laga’aia gets to explore these emotions more vividly, portraying Moana’s nerves and bravery in every move and song.

Dwayne Johnson Returns as Maui

While Laga’aia steps into new territory, her co-star Dwayne Johnson is no stranger to it. Reprising his role as Maui, the larger-than-life demigod, and stepping up as a producer, Johnson has been pivotal in bringing the story to life.

Fans can expect to see Maui’s magic fishhook, wild charisma, and comedic flair, but this time, there's more depth. The live-action format allows Johnson to explore Maui's insecurities hidden beneath his bravado. The dynamic between Moana and Maui starts as a humorous mismatch but evolves into a heartwarming friendship that anchors the film.

A New Adventure on the Big Screen

Directed by Thomas Kail, the live-action adventure traces Moana’s daring voyage beyond the reef of Motunui, accompanied by Maui. Laga’aia stands at the heart of this epic journey, turning a childhood favorite into a powerful debut.

Everything hinges on believing in oneself, navigating uncharted waters, and pushing limits. Through Catherine Laga’aia's portrayal, audiences worldwide will rediscover the magic that made Moana a modern classic. Now playing in theaters, this is a voyage you won’t want to miss.