Summary：**Moana Live‑Action Cast Shines: See How New Stars Match Beloved Animated Heroes** *Moana and Maui

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**Moana Live‑Action Cast Shines: See How New Stars Match Beloved Animated Heroes**

*Moana and Maui are setting sail once again — this time, in live‑action. Releasing in theaters July 10, Disney’s animated musical “Moana” comes back to life with a brand‑new live‑action remake led by Catherine Laga’aia, who stars as the titular character. Simu Liu takes on the demigod Maui, while newcomer Zendaya voices the spirited ocean spirit, Te Fiti. The film also features veteran actors Oscar Isaac as Chief Tui and Awkwafina as the mischievous Kakamora.*

### Introduction
Disney’s decision to reimagine its 2016 hit “Moana” as a live‑action spectacle arrives amid a wave of nostalgia‑driven remakes. The original film earned over $690 million worldwide and won two Academy Awards for its music and animation. By translating the Polynesian‑inspired story onto a tangible set, the studio hopes to capture both longtime fans and a new generation seeking authentic representation on screen.

### Key Developments
Principal photography wrapped in early 2024 across New Zealand’s rugged coastlines, chosen for their striking resemblance to the fictional Motunui. Director Taika Waititi, who co‑wrote the screenplay, emphasized cultural consultation with Pacific Islander scholars to ensure respectful depiction of language, dance, and mythology. Catherine Laga’aia, a Samoan‑New Zealand actress known for her stage work in “The Lion King” musical, underwent months of ocean‑navigation training to embody Moana’s wayfinding prowess. Simu Liu, fresh from “Shang‑Chi,” underwent intensive haka and fire‑knife workshops to physicalize Maui’s legendary shape‑shifting. The soundtrack, curated by Lin‑Manuel Miranda and Opetaia Foa‘i, blends original songs with newly arranged traditional