Disney’s live-action Moana opens Friday, July 11.
The film is nearly a note-for-note remake of the beloved 2016 animated version. Some might argue it’s too soon for a remake, but I, for one, am glad they turned it into a live-action movie.
Dwayne Johnson is back as Maui and is as charismatic as ever. I’ll admit it took me a minute to get used to seeing The Rock in a wig, but as the movie went on, that distraction completely disappeared.
Newcomer Catherine Lagaʻaia absolutely holds her own as Moana. She brings a vibrant energy to the character that anchors the film and propels the story forward.
In “Moana,” Disney’s live-action reimagining of the beloved Oscar®-nominated animated adventure, Moana (Catherine Lagaʻaia) answers the Ocean’s call and, for the first time, voyages beyond the reef of her island of Motunui with the infamous demigod Maui (Dwayne Johnson) on an unforgettable journey to restore prosperity to her people.
Moana is directed by Thomas Kail (“Fosse/Verdon”) and features a supporting cast of John Tui (Solo: A Star Wars Story), Frankie Adams (The Wrecking Crew), and Rena Owen (“The Orville”).
As a Filipina whose grandparents crossed the ocean from the Philippines to Hawaii in search of better job opportunities, seeing Pacific Islander representation on the big screen warms my heart.
To have Polynesian culture celebrated in a major Hollywood production is absolutely thrilling! The ensemble for the live-action Moana is composed of over 200 actors from the Pacific. I love knowing that this film provided fantastic opportunities for Pacific Islander dancers and background talent to shine.
The live-action adaptation is entertaining with great visuals. The soundtrack is just as catchy as the original (it features new renditions of the popular songs), plus Lin-Manuel Miranda delivers a brand-new song, “Along the Way,” that feels both fresh and familiar at the same time.
Catch Moana in theaters when it opens tomorrow!
“Moana” opens in theaters on July 10th.
“Moana” is rated PG.
Visit the official “Moana” website here for more information.
Disclosure: No monetary compensation was received for this post. I attended an advanced screening of the movie which helped facilitate this review. Images shown in this post are used with permission. As always, my opinions are 100% my own.
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I loved the 2016 version of the movie and I can’t wait to watch the remake, can’t wait. Most of us see ourselves in Moana, this courageous and smart character; she is amazing.
This looks and sounds like the perfect new movie for family night in my house. I love the sound of this one and the cast is awesome too!
Sounds like the perfect movie to take the grandkids to. Actually, this is great for the whole family to go to
I didn’t realise that they had made a live-action version of Moana! The animated film is fantastic and I’d love to see this!
Lucy | http://www.lucymary.co.uk
I’m white, so I will never understand the feeling that other cultures get when they see their heritage on the screen like this. However, I have been loving the push toward telling more diverse stories because I know that I have never had to wonder why I haven’t seen myself onscreen.
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Disney’s live-action Moana sounds like a lot of fun watching with kids. Thanks a lot for the recommendation.
We are going to see the Live Action version of Moana in Cinema, and my youngest is so excited! It sounds like such a meaningful movie.
I would love a review post movie viewing! Please let us know about the cultural dancing and other cultural elements.
We’re still planning to watch Moana, so I’m happy to hear such a positive review! And just like you, I’m still not used to seeing The Rock with hair. 😂 It definitely takes a moment to get used to!