Dwayne Johnson appeared in a pre-recorded message from Hawaii as part of Disney’s earnings call today (April 3, 2023) with CEO Bob Iger to announce that a live-action reimagining of Moana is currently in pre-production.
The Details
Dwayne Johnson, who voiced demigod Maui in the original animated film, will produce the live-action version alongside Dany Garcia and Hiram Garcia via their Seven Bucks Productions, as well as with Beau Flynn via Flynn Picture Co. Exec producers will include original Moana voice actor Auli’i Cravalho, as well as Scott Sheldon of Flynn Picture Co.
Joined by his two daughters, Johnson confirmed he will also play Maui in the live action reimaging, which will feature everyone’s favorite characters, including HeiHei.
“We are so excited and happy to announce that a live action reimagining of ‘Moana’ is in the works. Moana, Grandma Tala, the music, the dance, Te Fiti, Pua the pig, the village, the beautiful powerful ocean and one more…what’s that guys? Oh, yours truly…HeiHei the chicken! Kidding. HeiHei is gonna be in it, but of course Maui will be in it too.”
He continues, “Many of you may not know the brilliant team at Disney Animation, my partners, we found so much inspiration for Maui in the mana and the presence of my late grandfather, the legendary High Chief Peter Maivia. He would walk in light up the room — the energy, the tattoos, the hair, the bod. [sings with daughters] “When you’re starring at a demigod” Thank you. Sorry, I get caught up in the moment.”
“So as you guys can see — perfect timing as the sun comes out — just how deep the story is for me, because in a way, when I bring Maui to life, I’m doing it in the spirit of my grandfather. So it’s still very early in the process. There’s so much more work to be done.”
In posting the video to social media, Johnson Tweeted, “Humbled to say we’re bringing #MOANA’s beautiful story to the live action big screen! MAUI changed my life (miss you grandpa) and I’m honored to partner with @DisneyStudios to tell our story thru the realm of music & dance, which at the core is who we are as Polynesian people🪝”
The Announcement
Here is the video announcement that was shown during the earnings call: