I Just Learned Dwayne Johnson’s Sweet Personal Connection To Maui, And It’s Making Me Appreciate The Moana Character More Ahead Of The Live-Action Movie

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Given that we’re anticipating another Disney Animation film release from Walt Disney in nearly a year’s time, it’s worth revisiting their most recent production, Moana 2. The movie is now available for rental and purchase on various digital platforms. As I delved into the special features, I stumbled upon an interesting tidbit about the character of Maui that has given me a fresh perspective on Dwayne Johnson’s portrayal.

I Just Found Out Dwayne Johnson’s Maui Was Inspired By His Grandfather

While checking out the bonus material for “Moana 2,” namely the “A New Voyage” featurette, it was revealed that Dwayne Johnson (The Rock) shares a unique bond with the character Maui. This connection goes beyond the fact that they are both esteemed Polynesian figures. Here’s an interesting quote from him:

Many characteristics of my grandpa can be seen in Maui. My grandpa was known for his constant singing, and he was quite a large individual. He embodied the essence of strength and power, much like a two-dollar steak that’s tough to handle. He lived life with an aura of Mana.

Who is the grandfather of Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson? He is High Chief Peter Maivia, a man who has been frequently mentioned by The Rock during his professional career. Wrestling enthusiasts may already be familiar with him due to his wrestling and acting roles. Known as the “Flyin’ Hawaiian,” he also worked as an actor and stunt coordinator. You might recognize him from the James Bond movie, “You Only Live Twice,” where he played a driver who escorts 007 and later fights Sean Connery’s portrayal of the character. Unfortunately, in 1981, he was diagnosed with terminal cancer and passed away at the young age of 45.

Later on, he’s come back into the limelight of pop culture, largely due to his grandson, and isn’t it just awesome that The Rock gets to honor his roots by voicing a Disney character like Maui? It certainly adds depth to my appreciation for Maui, knowing that The Rock drew inspiration from personal experiences to bring this beloved character to life. Furthermore, it’s fascinating to think that he based some of the character traits on his late family members, creating a connection between Moana and his own daughters, who find themselves reflected in the story.

While this may not be new information for everyone, (as he apparently talked about it in 2022) and shared some photos of High Chief Peter Maivia on his Instagram when the movie opened big late last year, I somehow missed the boat the first time around. However, I’m happy I know this movie fact now, as well as other facts the filmmakers delved into in Moana 2.

I Also Love How Maui’s Character Was Deepened For Moana 2

During my viewing of the special features for Moana 2, I found myself captivated not only by the film itself, but also by the insights shared by the filmmakers and Dwayne Johnson about expanding the character of Maui, following the original Moana movie. As expressed by writer/director Dana Ledoux Miller:

Discussing the concept of being a demigod, implying self-sufficiency and independence, and then forming a friendship with Moana that turns out to be your sole weakness – what transpires when this bond is lost or threatened? What does it signify for someone so powerful to seek aid?

If a demigod who doesn’t need anyone has a special friendship with Moana, what happens if they lose that friendship or it gets put in danger? What does it show about them when they ask for help instead of solving things on their own?

It’s wonderful that the character of Maui offers a refreshing take on traditional masculinity by needing assistance from Moana instead of insisting on solo heroics, as portrayed in the movie. Dwayne Johnson himself noted this aspect.

Despite his larger-than-life presence, he carries a tender emotional side as well. A sentiment I often express is ‘The greatest power we can possess in our lives is being true to ourselves,’ and I believe Maui embodies this idea, resonating not just with me, but with fans worldwide.

Maui is an exceptional character, providing valuable Polynesian representation within mainstream media. I can’t wait to see his portrayal in the upcoming live-action version of “Moana,” scheduled for release this coming summer.

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2025-02-09 20:37