A Southern California landmark took center stage as the cast and creative team behind the new live-action “Moana” gathered for the film’s world premiere at the Hollywood Bowl.
Catherine Laga’aia leads the film as Moana, bringing the beloved character to life in a new adaptation of the story audiences first embraced in animated form a decade ago. Laga’aia and co-star Dwayne Johnson have been on a global promotional tour for the movie before reuniting in Los Angeles for the high-profile premiere at the famed outdoor venue.
Speaking at the event, Johnson said the night carried special meaning for him.
“I will never forget this night, George, and I mean that,” Johnson said. “And I challenged all of us — what more can be done than has ever been done? Well, Hollywood Bowl, 5,000 people, LA Philharmonic conducting the score as the film was going on. It was just awesome, man.”
Before the screening began, guests were treated to live musical performances that added to the celebratory atmosphere.
For Laga’aia, the evening marked a major personal milestone: her first movie premiere.
“I feel bad because I don’t understand the scale of these things because I’m so new to the industry,” she said with a smile. “This is my first premiere, I don’t know any different. I’m just kind of assuming this is what everything looks like. I’ll have to talk to Dwayne and ask, ‘Is this normal?’”
Members of the production team also emphasized that cultural authenticity was a priority throughout the making of the film.
Rena Owen, who plays Gramma Tala, credited the original animated film for setting a high standard.
“I have to acknowledge the animated film because it set high bars for all of us,” she said. “It gave us a mountain top to just jump from.”
Auli’i Cravalho, an executive producer on the film and the original voice of Moana, praised Laga’aia’s role in carrying the story forward.
“It’s not very often a young Pacific Island woman is able to take the helm of a film,” Cravalho said. “I am Moana and I’m still Moana and it takes nothing away from me for the passing of the baton to Catherine.”
“Moana” is rated PG and will be in theaters everywhere on Friday, July 10.
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