Moana 2 Star Dwayne Johnson Wants Maui to Challenge Masculinity with Disney Sequel

Moana 2 Star Dwayne Johnson Wants Maui to Challenge Masculinity with Disney Sequel

As someone who grew up watching Disney movies, the announcement of Moana 2 has filled me with pure joy and anticipation. I remember the original film resonating deeply with me due to its strong female lead and the complex character development of Maui. Now, seeing Maui delve deeper into his own vulnerabilities and ask for help is a testament to the evolution of Disney storytelling.


The long-awaited Moana 2 is set to premiere this year, leaving Disney enthusiasts eager to revisit the vibrant world of Moana, Maui, and Hei Hei. While the original cast will be joining for another journey, the sequel promises to delve deeper into each character’s development, including our beloved demigod Maui. In a recent interview with Entertainment Weekly, Co-Director Dana Ledoux Miller and Dwayne Johnson revealed some insights about how the film will further develop Maui, and one of the new hurdles he will encounter involves displaying vulnerability and seeking aid – a theme that Johnson considers essential in discussing masculinity.

An Evolving Bond

Moana 2 Star Dwayne Johnson Wants Maui to Challenge Masculinity with Disney Sequel

Miller stated that they are subjecting Moana and Maui to fresh trials and hurdles, which take them to uncharted territories we haven’t witnessed before. This process aids the development of their friendship and strengthens their bond, making it more crucial to them. However, it also exposes Maui, a character known for his grandeur, with vulnerabilities. It’s challenging for anyone, including ourselves, to ask for help in our lives.

At D23, Johnson elaborated on this concept, stating, “Asking for assistance is more than just a power; it’s a superpower. In my view, true masculinity doesn’t equate to being tough or acting like a badass. It’s about having the courage to examine oneself and admit, ‘This is how I feel, and that’s alright. Here’s my heart. I am ready to open it wide to someone who can aid me.’

Vulnerability is Powerful

Growing up, Johnson developed a habit of suppressing his feelings, which carried over into his sports and wrestling careers. However, this changed significantly following the unfortunate deaths by suicide of several of his friends. This experience taught him the importance of expressing oneself, and he recognized his own struggle in Maui.

Upon reaching Maui, Johnson remarked, “Ah, now I recognize him,” referring to an individual who is charismatic, enjoys performing, and thrives on entertaining crowds while spreading joy. However, there are depths to this person that will eventually surface as unresolved issues, much like a submerged ball that must inevitably be released, causing it to burst open.

Johnson emphasized that it’s significant to demonstrate strength, size, and independence, but it’s alright to seek assistance when needed. He added that once you do ask for help, there’s a knack for the universe and your loved ones to meet you halfway. The strongest individuals also require aid.

Moana and Maui will be working together more like equals this time, with less distinction in their roles compared to the traditional hierarchical structure between a demigod and a human. As Cravalho explained, “There’s less of a power divide now; they trust each other deeply. Moana is capable of making significant decisions, and Maui has learned to listen to her.

Moana 2 hits theaters on November 27th.

Are you looking forward to Moana 2? Feel free to share your thoughts about all things Disney with me on Threads or Twitter at @mattaguilarcb!

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2024-09-13 05:40