‘Moana’ Cast and Oceanic Story Trust on Honoring Legacy While Grounding the Magic in Live Action

In the decade since Moana was released, the animated original has evolved from a Disney hit into a cultural touchstone, introducing many audiences to Pasifika cultures while giving young viewers a heroine rooted in courage, ancestry, and wayfinding. Now, the live-action iteration comes to us, giving the film a more tangible feel to what the animated film could not do. And we had a chance to talk to some of the cast and crew about making that leap from animation to live-action.

The Nerds of Color spoke with John Tui (Chief Tui), Frankie Adams (Sina), Rena Owen (Gramma Tala), Dr. Grant Muāgututiʻa (Lead Consultant, Cultural Trust), Tiana Nonosina Liufau (Choreographer, Associate Producer, Cultural Trust), and Opetaia Foaʻi (Songwriter) about honoring the legacy of Moana while bringing its music, movement, and cultural storytelling into live action.

When asked about stepping into the role of Gramma Tala after Rachel House’s beloved performance in the animated film, Owen spoke with deep admiration for what came before her. “Rachel gave me the biggest mountaintop, all I had to do was open my heart and fly from it,” she said. “When you’re chosen for a role like this, with the best material and the best actors and director, your only job is to show up, be present, and be alive.”

Because the songs in Moana are so deeply rooted in identity and ancestry, Foaʻi said it was important for the music to remain connected to the culture that inspired it, even as the story moved into live action.

“I love my culture,” Foaʻi said. “I’ve always said it: I serve my ancestors in this movie. I’ve always done that. So whatever I feel aligns with how the ancestors lived, their languages, is how I would do it. If I felt they were not going to be happy with it, I wouldn’t do it.”

Whether through its performances, choreography, or music, everyone we spoke with shared the same goal, which is to honor the legacy of Moana while ensuring its celebration of Pasifika culture continues to resonate with a new generation of audiences.

Moana opens in theaters on July 10, 2026