Dwayne Johnson Kicks Off ‘Moana’ Live-Action World Tour in Hawaii with Emotional Celebration of Polynesian Culture

Dwayne Johnson has officially launched the global promotional tour for Disney’s highly anticipated live-action adaptation of Moana, sharing a special video from Hawaii featuring key members of the film’s cast. The actor, who reprises his role as the larger-than-life demigod Maui, appeared onstage alongside original Moana voice actress Auli'i Cravalho and the film’s new lead, Catherine Laga'aia, marking the beginning of the movie’s worldwide promotional campaign ahead of its theatrical release.

The Hawaii event served as both a celebration of the beloved franchise and a tribute to Polynesian culture, which remains at the heart of the Moana story. During the gathering, Johnson reflected on the journey of bringing the animated classic to life in a new format, speaking about the importance of authenticity, representation, and honoring the traditions that inspired the film. The atmosphere was filled with pride as cast members shared personal stories about their connection to the project and its cultural significance.

Auli'i Cravalho, who voiced Moana in Disney’s 2016 animated hit, joined the festivities to support the new chapter of the franchise. Meanwhile, Catherine Laga'aia, who takes on the title role in the live-action adaptation, spoke about the responsibility and excitement of portraying one of Disney’s most beloved modern heroines. The event highlighted the strong sense of community surrounding the production and its commitment to showcasing Polynesian voices on a global stage.

One of the most memorable moments came at the conclusion of the celebration when Johnson, Cravalho, and Laga'aia joined together for the traditional Polynesian “Chee Hoo” cheer. The energetic call echoed throughout the venue and symbolized the spirit, unity, and cultural pride that the cast hopes audiences will experience when watching the film. Johnson also spoke about the “mana” behind the project, emphasizing the positive energy and cultural heritage woven into the story.

As excitement continues to build, Johnson encouraged moviegoers around the world to experience the adventure, music, and traditions that have made Moana a global phenomenon. The live-action adaptation is set to arrive in theaters on July 10, promising a fresh retelling of the beloved tale while celebrating the rich culture and storytelling traditions of Polynesia for a new generation of audiences.