Disney’s Moana (2025) live-action remake delivers a visually breathtaking and emotionally charged retelling of the 2016 animated classic. Directed by Taika Waititi and starring newcomer Catherine Laga‘aia as Moana, with Dwayne Johnson reprising his role as Maui, the film expands the Polynesian mythology while staying true to its heart.
The story begins with Moana growing restless on the island of Motunui, yearning to explore the ocean despite her father’s warnings. When a mysterious darkness begins to consume the island’s crops and fish, Moana’s grandmother, Tala, reveals the legend of the stolen heart of Te Fiti — a goddess whose power gives life to the ocean. After Tala’s death, Moana sets sail to restore the heart, guided by the ocean itself.
Her journey brings her face-to-face with Maui, a boastful demigod who initially refuses to help. Together they battle Kakamora pirates and the greedy giant crab Tamatoa, in a sequence that blends practical effects and bioluminescent CGI. Along the way, Moana learns that true leadership means courage, empathy, and faith in oneself.
In the climax, Moana realizes the fiery demon Te Kā is actually Te Fiti transformed by rage and loss. Returning the heart restores balance to the world, and the ocean calms once more.
In a poignant ending, Moana returns home, finally leading her people beyond the reef as voyagers once again. The film closes with Maui soaring overhead as a hawk — smiling proudly at Moana’s triumph.
