Moana Live-Action Announcement: Dwayne Johnson to return as exiled demigod 'Maui'

After over 6 years, the animated musical action-adventure fantasy Moana is set to be back as a live-action movie. Dwayne Johnson, who played Maui, announced the forthcoming flick in an adorable video that also features his two daughters.

The announcement video begins with Johnson, who greets everyone and informs the fans that he is on the island of O'ahu in Hawai'i.

Furthermore, he mentions how the island has shared his upbringing while growing up. "The pacific island and their cultures inspired a very special story. One that you all know very well. And that story is...drum roll, please" he announces, while his two daughters interrupt him and yell, "Moana" while playing with the sand on the beach.

The Rock further adds that he and his team are excited as well as happy to announce that a live action reimagining of Moana is in the works and along with Maui and Moana, the upcoming film is set to be back with all the important characters including Grandma Tala, the music, the dance, Te Fiti, Pua the pig and Heihei the chicken. Just like the 2016 film, the upcoming feature will also showcase the beautiful and powerful ocean.

Watch the latest announcement video here:

In an official statement, Johnson shared how deeply humbled he feels to bring his 2016 animated film Moana to live action on the big screen as the story of the upcoming film displays his culture and the grace and warrior strength of his people. 

He further added how he proudly wears his culture and how his character Maui is inspired by mana and his late grandfather, High Chief Peter Maivia.

Backed by Johnson himself along with Dany Garcia and Hiram Garcia under the banners of Seven Bucks Productions, and Beau Flynn via Flynn Picture Co., while Auli‘i Cravalho, who voiced Moana in the 2016 film, serves as the executive producer and has also helped in shaping Moana is the upcoming movie.

The release date of the Moana feature film is yet to be out, meanwhile, the 2016 Moana is available to stream on Disney+ Hotstar.