Overview
- The global press tour reached London on Wednesday, where a Potters Fields Park pop‑up recreated Moana’s canoe and a 20‑foot replica of Maui’s fishhook for fans and press.
- Disney cast newcomer Catherine Lagaʻaia as Moana after a public search that the studio and cast describe as extensive, with Dwayne Johnson saying she beat out thousands of applicants.
- Dwayne Johnson made a surprise appearance at the London event and joined student performers on stage, while invited schoolchildren from Colchester met the stars in a staged surprise.
- The film features a new Lin‑Manuel Miranda song titled “Along The Way” performed by Catherine Lagaʻaia, Dwayne Johnson and Auliʻi Cravalho, who has said she will not reprise the lead role in the live‑action film.
- Disney is positioning the movie for an exclusive July 10 theatrical launch with advance ticket sales and a marketing push that emphasizes Polynesian artisans, consultation and visual faithfulness even as critics raise concerns about cultural homogenization and Maui’s portrayal.