Catherine Lagaʻaia Opens Up About Her Role in Disney's Live-Action Moana
Catherine Lagaʻaia's Journey as Moana
As Disney prepares for the launch of its eagerly awaited live-action version of Moana, 19-year-old Catherine Lagaʻaia, who plays the lead role, has shared her transformative experiences during the film's promotional activities. Discussing the character's wisdom, Lagaʻaia pointed out the significance of the relationship between Moana and her grandmother, Grandma Tala. She remarked, "It’s the guidance she receives from her grandma to venture beyond the reef," emphasizing how Grandma Tala's steadfast belief in Moana acts as a source of inspiration, hinting at a greater purpose that may not yet be apparent.
Lagaʻaia's filming experience has also been profoundly enlightening. "I discovered a lot about myself and learned to be courageous," she shared. The actress acknowledged that she encountered many daunting opportunities, yet she ultimately embraced these challenges. "Having come through it, I feel more inclined to pursue things that might seem out of reach or overly difficult," she reflected, drawing a connection between her personal development and her character's adventurous nature.
The live-action Moana reinterprets the cherished 2016 animated film, chronicling the adventures of a determined teenager who sets out on a bold journey across the ocean to save her people. Accompanied by the legendary shapeshifting demigod Maui, played by Dwayne Johnson, Moana aims to restore the heart of Te Fiti and lift a curse endangering her island. The cast also includes John Tui as Chief Tui, Frankie Adams as Sina, and Rena Owen as Grandma Tala, along with delightful animal companions Pua the pig and Heihei the rooster.
Directed by Emmy and Tony Award winner Thomas Kail, renowned for his work on Hamilton, this film is set to bring the beloved narrative to life on a grand scale. The production team features Dwayne Johnson, Dany Garcia, Beau Flynn, Hiram Garcia, and Lin-Manuel Miranda, who contributes original music alongside Opetaia Foaʻi and Mark Mancina. The film's score, composed by Mancina, promises to deliver a rich auditory experience for viewers.
Moana is scheduled to premiere in theaters across India on July 10, 2026, and will be available in both English and Hindi. As excitement grows for this reimagined classic, fans are eager to see how this timeless story resonates with a new audience while preserving the essence and spirit of the original animated film.