Embracing a cherished Disney role presents a unique challenge for any performer, and for Catherine Laga'aia, taking on the lead in Disney's live-action 'Moana' at merely 17 was a momentous occasion. Now 19, Laga'aia discusses stepping into a part previously voiced by Auli'i Cravalho. She reflects on the emotional weight of portraying a character that resonated with her Samoan heritage from childhood, finding comfort and guidance from her co-star Dwayne Johnson and director Thomas Kail, celebrated for his work on Broadway's 'Hamilton'. Her journey from an unknown actress to a global sensation began with an open casting call on Instagram, where she triumphed over 32,000 hopefuls, a testament to her talent and a mother's intuition.
Laga'aia's approach to the role involved imbuing Moana with her own essence, acknowledging the slight age difference between her portrayal and the animated original. She emphasizes that the live-action rendition aims to introduce fresh perspectives rather than merely replicate the past. This personal connection extends to her reflections on her father, Jay Laga'aia, known for his role as Captain Typho in the 'Star Wars' prequels, who instilled in her a profound respect for the craft of acting. She shares invaluable advice from him, emphasizing that the audition itself is the primary objective, a philosophy that guided her through the competitive casting process.
Working alongside Dwayne Johnson, Laga'aia admired his commitment and readiness to embrace any challenge on set. She also recounts the unique experience of filming with bluescreens, requiring her to interact with imaginary characters that would later be added through CGI. These experiences, though demanding, were made manageable by her familiarity with the original film and the supportive atmosphere of the cast and crew, whom she describes as a 'village.' As she prepares for the film's release and the ensuing global attention, Laga'aia maintains a grounded perspective, humorously acknowledging her 'nepo baby' status while expressing a genuine desire to explore stage acting in the future, despite her newfound screen success.
Catherine Laga'aia's journey to becoming Moana in the live-action film is a powerful narrative of embracing heritage, navigating industry pressures with grace, and finding strength in personal connections. Her story illuminates the importance of dedication and authenticity in pursuing artistic passions, inspiring others to bring their unique selves to any challenge they encounter.
