The live-action Moana film came to CinemaCon with new footage that goes beyond what we saw in its trailer. That clip got a lot of attention online, thanks to Dwayne Johnson’s long flowing wig, and made fans curious about how this film will bring something new to a beloved story. Disney hit the stage with more insight for a Moana segment.
Dwayne Johnson came to the stage and revealed a sweet story about how his late grandfather inspired his performance of Maui. He even showed a picture of him, which garnered audience applause. Johnson said it was important to revisit this story in live-action because there’s something so special about seeing real human beings, and said this would make Polynesian people proud. He said the story is global and calls Moana a princess who is empowered by Maui, and calls for men in real life to champion women. Such a girl dad statement!
He also brought out Catherine Lagaʻaia, who said she grew up watching Moana. Now onto what we saw in the room. We see the sea illuminate and Moana embraces an ancestor, who tells her that the seas chose her. And yes, there’s Maui who says he always has time for his fans (fun joke).
Then we hear the classic song of this universe, warm embraces, and Maui diving into the sea before slaying an antagonist. The clip ends with Maui saying its Maui time before breaking out into song and flexing his muscles. And of course, it doesn’t get any cuter than seeing Pua running around.
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