Dwayne Johnson unveils new look at ‘Moana’ live-adaptation, reflects on his role as Maui; ‘An amazing experience’

A new extended look at the live-action adaptation of 2016 animated hit, ‘Moana,’ has been unveiled. The clip was released at an event in Las Vegas, which shows Catherine Laga’aia, who reprises her role of the titular character, singing “How Far I’ll Go,” as Dwayne Johnson, reprises his role of Demigod Maui, and sings “You’re Welcome.”

At CinemaCon in Las Vegas, Dwayne Johnson took to the stage to debut the new ‘Moana’ footage, along with Catherine Laga’aia.

Playing Maui has been an amazing experience for Dwayne Johnson

According to Deadline, in his appearance on stage in Las Vegas, Johnson said “Maui is very real” to Polynesian people and that it’s been “an amazing experience” living with the character for 10+ years. He said the character embodies “what real masculinity looks like,” with men supporting and championing women, and noted that he channeled his late, beloved grandfather in the role.

Dwayne Johnson says live-actions are special

In explaining why he wanted to bring a live-action version of the property to life, Johnson said, “There’s something special and important [when] you take animation into live-action. We’re able to showcase our Pacific island, real people, and it’s humbling and inspiring all at once.”

More about the plot of ‘Moana’

Set in ancient Polynesia, Moana follows the daughter of a village chief, who is chosen by the ocean to restore the heart of Te Fiti and save her people, embarking on a voyage across the Pacific alongside the shape-shifting demigod Maui.

Thomas Kail directed the new ‘Moana,’ in his feature debut, from a script by Jared Bush and Dana Ledoux Miller.

The film hits theatres on July 10.Get the latest entertainment updates from the Times of India, along with the latest Hindi movies, upcoming Hindi movies in 2026 , and Telugu movies.”