In an era where live-action adaptations breathe new life into animated classics, Disney is poised to set sail once again with its beloved tale of Moana, this time in a live-action format. Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, reprising his role as the charismatic demi-god Maui, has sparked waves of excitement with the confirmation that Disney has found its new Moana for the much-anticipated live-action remake, set to premiere on June 27, 2025.
A Global Search Ends in Success
The announcement came during an interview at the WWE WrestleMania 40 Kickoff, where Johnson couldn’t contain his enthusiasm about the casting process. “One of the exciting things about that was actually finding our Moana and how exciting that has been. The global search to find our Moana — which — between you and I, we found her — not gonna tell you yet. [It’s] very exciting,” Johnson shared with Entertainment Tonight.
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This revelation marks a pivotal moment in the journey towards bringing a new dimension to the story of Moana, highlighting Disney’s commitment to finding the perfect embodiment for the role. Despite the secrecy surrounding the actress’s identity, this news ensures that the casting process was exhaustive and inclusive, promising a fresh and authentic portrayal of the iconic character.
Auliʻi Cravalho’s New Role Behind the Scenes
Interestingly, Auliʻi Cravalho, the original voice of Moana in the 2016 animated hit, has taken on a different role for the live-action adaptation. As a producer, Cravalho has been instrumental in “finding the next actress to portray” the ocean-loving Wayfinder, ensuring the live-action version remains true to the spirit of the character that captured the hearts of millions.
Moana’s Filming and Release: The Road Ahead
While fans eagerly await the unveiling of the new Moana, questions about the film’s production schedule and its adherence to the announced release date have surfaced. Following the announcement of Moana 2 and its November 27, 2024 release, skepticism about the live-action movie’s timeline emerged.
However, Johnson’s latest update provides a reassuring beacon of hope. The actor confirmed that filming is slated to begin later this year, potentially aligning with the June 2025 release, despite the challenges posed by his packed schedule and the immense expectations from the global fanbase.
Anticipation Builds
As Disney’s live-action movie begins to take shape, the anticipation among fans and followers of the franchise continues to build. With Dwayne Johnson’s involvement, both on-screen and behind the scenes, and the meticulous search for the new Moana, Disney is crafting what promises to be a memorable reimagining of a modern classic.
The journey to the film’s release may be filled with mystery and suspense, especially regarding the new Moana’s identity, but one thing remains certain: the adventure that lies ahead is sure to captivate audiences worldwide, mirroring the spirit of exploration and discovery at the heart of Moana’s story.
