Catherine Laga’aia Says Moana Helped Her Discover Courage and Confidence Ahead of Live-Action Release

As Disney prepares to bring its beloved animated classic Moana to life in a live-action adaptation, newcomer Catherine Laga’aia is stepping into one of the studio’s most iconic roles. For the 19-year-old actress, however, the journey was about much more than starring in a major film. According to Laga’aia, playing Moana became a deeply personal experience that helped her learn valuable lessons about confidence, courage, and self-belief.

The actress recently reflected on how the film’s themes of exploration and trust shaped her own outlook during production, describing the project as a transformative chapter in her life.

A Story About Believing in Yourself

At the heart of Moana lies the relationship between Moana and her grandmother, Grandma Tala, whose faith in the young heroine becomes a guiding force throughout her journey.

Laga’aia explained that this message resonated strongly with her during filming. She highlighted the idea that Grandma Tala sees potential in Moana long before the young voyager fully recognizes it herself.

The actress said this unwavering belief became one of the film’s most meaningful themes, inspiring her both as a performer and as a young person navigating a new stage in life.

Director Thomas Kail on Going Beyond Limits

Director Thomas Kail, known for his acclaimed work on Hamilton, believes the story’s enduring appeal comes from its universal message about pushing beyond perceived limitations.

According to Kail, one of the central ideas of Moana is discovering that there is often more possible than people initially believe.

The film encourages audiences to explore unfamiliar paths, trust their instincts, and embrace opportunities even when outcomes are uncertain.

Kail noted that this theme resonates across generations because the challenge of stepping into the unknown is something nearly everyone experiences at some point in life.

How the Film Changed Catherine Laga’aia

For Laga’aia, the lessons of Moana extended far beyond the script.

The actress revealed that she entered the project feeling uncertain about some of the opportunities placed before her. Like many young performers beginning their careers, she sometimes questioned whether certain goals were within reach.

However, by the end of filming, she found herself more willing to embrace challenges and take risks.

According to Laga’aia, the experience taught her to move beyond fear and pursue opportunities that once seemed intimidating or unattainable.

She described the transformation as one of the most important personal outcomes of working on the film.

A Message for Young Audiences

Laga’aia believes the story’s message is especially relevant for young people facing major life decisions.

Drawing parallels between Moana’s journey beyond the reef and her own experiences, she encouraged young audiences to remain open to opportunities and trust themselves when pursuing ambitious goals.

The actress suggested that personal growth often comes from stepping outside familiar environments and embracing experiences that may initially seem daunting.

Her perspective reflects one of the central themes that has made Moana resonate with audiences around the world since the original animated film’s release.

Why Moana Continues to Connect With Families

Kail emphasized that Moana succeeds because it speaks to audiences of all ages without simplifying its emotional themes.

Rather than presenting challenges that apply only to children or teenagers, the story explores questions of identity, responsibility, family expectations, and personal purpose—issues that remain relevant throughout life.

According to the filmmaker, this balance is what has helped Moana become a modern family favorite.

The narrative encourages viewers to honor their communities and loved ones while also finding the confidence to follow their own path.

Disney’s Live-Action Reimagining

Disney’s live-action adaptation of Moana is directed by Thomas Kail and produced by:

• Dwayne Johnson
• Dany Garcia
• Beau Flynn
• Hiram Garcia
• Lin-Manuel Miranda

The film is executive produced by:

• Thomas Kail
• Scott Sheldon
• Charles Newirth
• Auliʻi Cravalho

Cravalho, who voiced Moana in the animated films, remains connected to the franchise through her executive producer role.

India Release Date

Disney’s live-action Moana is scheduled to release in India on July 10, 2026, in both English and Hindi.

With a fresh cast, updated visuals, and the same powerful themes of courage, family, and self-discovery, the film aims to introduce Moana’s story to a new generation while honoring the spirit of the original animated classic.