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Dwayne Johnson’s Live-Action Remake Set to Include ‘Hamilton’ Director

Maui and Hamilton
Credit: Disney

With Hamilton and In the Heights on his resume, will this director “know the way” for one of Disney’s newest live-action remakes?

When Dwayne Johnson sailed through with an announcement of one of Disney’s most beloved film remakes, Disney fans’ ears perked up to hear if their favorite actors would join the cast. The 2016 animated film Moana introduced a certified classic Disney princess with household characters to love, like Hei Hei and Pua.

Moana

Maui, Moana, Hei Hei, the chicken, and Pua, the pig. Credit: Disney

The idea of a live-action remake of a more recent film sparked discussions about the incomparable voice behind Moana joining the live-action cast. Auliʻi Cravalho, the Moana actress whose voice called out to millions of Disney fans, reported she would not reprise her role as Moana in the remake. Although she’ll sit on the production side of the film, her announcement sent a wave of disappointment through Moana fans.

It’s nearly impossible to duplicate such iconic Disney characters, which is why Dwayne Johnson’s return as Maui could help restore the heart of Te Fiti—we mean, fans’ faith in the film.

Without Cravalho’s ethereal vocals, fans are skeptical of the already-repetitive remake trend spoiling the enthralling film. While little information about the Moana remake has been released aside from the open casting call for the film’s star, a nearly-confirmed update reinvigorates enthusiasm among Disney fanatics.

Dwayne Johnson Live-action Moana

Dwayne Johnson announces the live-action Moana film / Credit: Disney

‘Hamilton’ Director Reportedly Joins ‘Moana’ Crew

With Lin Manuel-Miranda’s Moana soundtrack sitting at the top of the charts on 52 occasions since its debut, it’s safe to assume anyone who works closely with him knows their stuff.

In exciting Moana news, Tony Award-winning musical director, Thomas Kail, is reportedly voyaging onto the film set. Shared by Epicstream, the rumor has been floating around, and Disney has yet to give official confirmation.

Credit: Disney

Kail has orchestrated astounding musical numbers for the record-breaking Broadway show Hamilton and the acclaimed film In the Heights. With high-bar productions in his repertoire, Kail would be a welcome addition to the remake featuring producer Dwayne Johnson and co-producers Dany Garcia and Hiram Garcia.

No official dates have been set for the film’s release, but it’s rumored to film this fall and sail into theaters sometime in 2025.

About Kaitlin Morelli

A Disney World Guest since before she could walk, Kaitlin is a Jersey girl and former Virginia Tech Hokie. When she's not listening to the 'Moana' soundtrack on repeat with her baby daughter, she's writing, singing, and strumming the ukulele. Kaitlin is passionate about finding the best Disney Park tips n' tricks and moments when pop culture and Disney collide. She's looking forward to eventually taking her first Disney trip with her favorite fan in the making: her daughter.

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