Disney’s live-action Moana builds on the legacy of the beloved 2016 animated film while introducing a new generation of audiences to Polynesian culture through an immersive live action experience. At the heart of that journey is newcomer Catherine Laga’aia, who takes the torch from Auli’i Cravalho, who voiced the character in the animated films.
Returning to the franchise is legendary songwriter Lin-Manuel Miranda, who wrote many of the songs that made the animated film so memorable. This time, Miranda adds a new song, “Along the Way,” that combines the vocal talents of the new and prior Moana actresses.
POC Culture spoke with Laga’aia and Miranda about revisiting the music, honoring Polynesian culture and the moment Disney knew it had found its new Moana.
Moana releases July 10, 2026 in theaters.
Catherine Laga’aia Wanted to Honor Polynesian Culture
For Laga’aia, one of the most meaningful parts of joining the production was knowing that the film would be authentic to her culture, thanks to the cultural trust made up of experts from across Polynesia.
“It was the most kind of immersive experience that it could have been,” Laga’aia said. “We had an incredible cultural trust that had people from all different walks of life, people who were experts in all different kinds of things to do with culture, who just ensured that everything was as authentic and genuine as possible. And I think that gives you the most comfort because you don’t want to create this beautiful movie that has actually nothing to do with culture.”
Authenticity was particularly important to Laga’aia, who is of Samoan decent, because she grew up on the animated film and understands the importance of representation.
“I felt like we were going to do this film right because, at the end of the day, I’m a fan of the 2016 [animated film]. That’s what I grew up on. That was representation that I needed growing up. So I want to give that same thing back to the people who are going to grow up on this film,” Laga’aia said.
Lin-Manuel Miranda Knew They Had Found Moana
Miranda also reflected on returning to Moana nearly a decade after helping create the original songs. For this film, he reunited with many of his long-time collaborators who helped make the original film successful, including Mark Mancina, Opetaia Foa’i, Alex Lacamoire and director Thomas Kail.
“I knew we were in really safe hands and that they were, you know, they were around when I was writing these songs the first time, so it was a joy to sort of bring them into this project,” Miranda said.
Of course, one of the biggest challenges in making a live-action adaptation is trying to find someone who can embody an animated character who has quickly become one of Disney’s most beloved. Miranda recalled the exact moment he saw Laga’aia’s audition.
Director Thomas Kail sent Miranda Langa’aia’s audition tape, and after watching her perform, he said there was no doubt.
“It was that simple. It was like we found Moana and the spirit was there and the star quality was there and her voice was incredible,” Miranda said. “We were just thrilled that a flesh and blood Moana existed.”
Singing a Song Written by Lin-Manuel Miranda
For Laga’aia, working with Miranda was understandably an unforgettable experience that actually elicited an emotional reaction from her.
“The first time I met Lin, I cried and apparently I bowed, which was, it’s on video somewhere. I collapsed straight to the floor because I didn’t know he was coming,” Laga’aia said.
Laga’aia grew up a fan of both Moana and Hamilton, so it was particularly impactful to know that Miranda had written music specifically for her, which also came with a special surprise.
“I remember hearing the song for the first time and the part that I was going to sing was sung by Phillipa Soo, who plays obviously Eliza on Hamilton. That was crazy as well,” Laga’aia shared.
Watch our full interview with Catherine Laga’aia and Lin-Manuel Miranda below.
Ron is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of POC Culture. He is a big believer in the power and impact of pop culture and the importance of representation in media.
