Disney ‘Moana’ live-action casting call hints at accurate depiction of titular character
By Bryan Ke
Disney is now looking for an actor to play the live-action version of Moana, the titular character of the hit 2016 animated film of the same name.
According to a recent casting call obtained by The DisInsider, Disney is looking for a 16-year-old actor to play the film’s “heroic, bold, adventurous, [and] never selfish” protagonist who is also “determined to fulfill the quest of her ancestors and save her people.”
“Despite her father’s protests, and emboldened by her Gramma’s encouragement, the intuitive and courageous Moana embarks on a dangerous quest, sailing beyond the reef and using her strength and intelligence to overcome epic obstacles along the way,” the casting call reportedly states.
While Dwayne Johnson and Auli’i Cravalho are both on board as producer and executive producer, respectively, only Johnson will be reprising his role in the live-action adaptation.
Cravalho, the 22-year-old actor who voiced Moana in the 2016 animated film, confirmed in an Instagram video uploaded on Friday that she would not be returning for the role.
When I was cast as Moana at 14, it wonderfully changed my life and started my career. In this live-action retelling, I will not be reprising the role. I believe it is absolutely vital that casting accurately represents the characters and stories we want to tell. I can’t wait to find the next actress to portray Moana’s courageous spirit, undeniable wit and emotional strength.
The adaptation is set to be produced by Johnson along with partners Dany Garcia and Hiram Garcia through their Seven Bucks Productions.
In a statement following the film’s announcement in early April, Johnson said he was “deeply humbled and overcome with gratitude” to do a live-action project for “Moana.”
This story is my culture, and this story is emblematic of our people’s grace and warrior strength. I wear this culture proudly on my skin and in my soul, and this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to reunite with Maui, inspired by the mana and spirit of my late grandfather, High Chief Peter Maivia, is one that runs very deep for me.
Although Disney has emphasized the potential candidate’s strong singing skills, the studio is encouraging anyone with or without acting experience to audition for the role.
Those who are interested can send their details, such as their name, a recent photo and their location, to moana.casting@disneympp.com.
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