Disney has opened ticket sales for its highly anticipated live action “Moana” and revealed a familiar addition to the cast, with Jemaine Clement set to reprise his role as Tamatoa from the beloved animated original.
The Flight of the Conchords star returns to the world of “Moana” a decade after stealing scenes in the original animated film, joining a cast led by Australian newcomer Catherine Lagaʻaia as Moana and Dwayne Johnson, who once again steps into the role of the demigod Maui.
Disney unveiled the casting news alongside a new trailer for the film, which arrives in Australian and New Zealand cinemas on July 8th.
Clement joins an ensemble cast that also includes Rena Owen as Gramma Tala, John Tui as Chief Tui, and Frankie Adams as Sina, Moana’s mother.
Check out the trailer below.
Directed by “Hamilton” filmmaker Thomas Kail, the live-action adaptation revisits the story of Moana’s journey beyond the shores of Motunui as she answers the ocean’s call and embarks on an adventure alongside Maui to restore prosperity to her people.
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The film features original songs by Lin-Manuel Miranda, Opetaia Foaʻi, and Mark Mancina, with Mancina also returning to compose the score.
Original Moana voice actor Auliʻi Cravalho serves as an executive producer alongside Johnson and a producing team that includes Beau Flynn, Dany Garcia, and Hiram Garcia.
“Moana” opens in cinemas across Australia and New Zealand on July 8th.