Explained: Why is Auli’i Cravalho not returning as Moana in the new live-action remake?
In an unexpected turn of events, Auli'i Cravalho has announced that she will not be reprising her role of Moana in the new live-action remake of the film. The actress was famed for voicing the fan-favorite character and singing critically-acclaimed songs such as "How Far I'll Go" and "Where You Are."
In a video shared by the actress on Twitter, she explained that she will not be a part of the upcoming film and wishes the best to her fellow co-workers from the animated version of the film, who will be reprising their roles. She also talked about the importance of cultural representation on the big screen and completely supports the initiative of the film to do so. She gave a statement on her absence from the film:
"When I was cast as Moana at the age of 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 to cast actors that represent the characters ad stories the film wants to tell."
She continued:
"So, as an executive producer of the film, I cannot wait to help find the next actress to portray Moana's courageous spirit, undeniable wit, and emotional strength. I'm truly honored to pass this baton to the next woman to honor our incredible people's culture, and communities that help inspire her story, and I look forward to all the beautiful Pacific representations to come. Mahalo."
The actress' revelation has received mixed reviews from the film's fandom, with some calling her the 'perfect choice' to play the part while others respect her decision to give a chance to other actresses. Regardless, the actress' addition to the live-action remake in the capacity of an executive producer has excited fans and has built anticipation for the film even more. In addition to the viral video, the actress also posted a casting call on her Twitter handle for the role of Moana.
The actress' decision comes after the studio faced controversy regarding the selection of actress Sydney Agudong to play the role of Nani in the live-action remake of Lilo & Stich. The casting of Agudong in the film faced backlash as fans pointed out that she looks nothing like the animated version of the character. Therefore, it is unfair and disrespectful to the culture and ethnicity that the film tries to depict.
Moana's live-action remake: What do we know so far?
Following remakes like Lilo & Stich and The Little Mermaid, Disney has now announced the live-action remake Moana which is rumored to be released in 2024. While the studio has only announced that the film is in development, the internet has had mixed reviews regarding the reprisal of the beloved film already.
While some say that it'll be interesting to see their favorite characters come to life, the majority of fandom says that it is too early for a remake of the film, as the original film came out in 2016. The fandom has also been vocal in their criticism of Disney's initiative to reprise this film as they say that the animated version of the film cannot be topped and still feels very fresh and there isn't any need for reprising the film.
The film will play along the familiar lines of the original animated version. The synopsis for the film, as per Disney, reads:
"An adventurous teenager sails out on a daring mission to save her people. During her journey, Moana meets the once-mighty demigod Maui, who guides her in her quest to become a master way-finder. Together they sail across the open ocean on an action-packed voyage, encountering enormous monsters and impossible odds. Along the way, Moana fulfills the ancient quest of her ancestors and discovers the one thing she always sought: her own identity."
The film will star many original cast member from the animated version, apart from Auli'i Cravalho, as mentioned before. The film will be produced by Dwayne Johnson, Dany Garcia, and Hiram Garcia via their Seven Bucks Productions, and Beau Flynn via Flynn Picture Co.
Executive producers include Auli‘i Cravalho, who voiced Moana in the 2016 film, and Scott Sheldon of Flynn Picture Co. Jared Bush, who was a director and co-writer of Disney’s Oscar-winning feature Encanto and a writer and co-director on Disney’s Oscar-winning film Zootopia, wrote the screenplay for 2016’s Moana. He will also be acting as a producer.
Dwayne Johnson, Auli‘i Cravalho, and Sean Bailey comment on the upcoming live-action remake of Moana
In a statement released by Disney regarding the upcoming reprisal of the 2016 film, producer and actor Dwayne Johnson, who will also reprise his role of Maui, talked about the film's personal importance to him and commented:
“I’m deeply humbled and overcome with gratitude to bring the beautiful story of Moana to the live-action big screen. 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."
Auli'i Cravalho also shared her views on the importance of representation of her culture and ethnicity on the big screen through Disney's Live action remake::
“She has had such a profound impact on how we think of Disney princesses. Moana’s strength and perseverance are inspiring—to audiences around the world, to me, and to everyone who helped bring her to life. I’m looking forward to sharing her story in a whole new way.”
Sean Bailey, president of Walt Disney Studios Motion Picture Production, said the film would join the successful lineup of live-action adaptations that include 2017’s Beauty and the Beast, 2019’s Aladdin, and the highly anticipated live-action version of The Little Mermaid, which is set to premiere on May 26, 2023 in theaters. He commented:
“It’s still early, but the idea of working with these fantastic partners to tell such a meaningful story on a live-action canvas, particularly as we celebrate 100 years of storytelling at Disney, is thrilling."
The live-action remake of Moana is rumored to release in late 2024.
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