Between this and Central Intelligence, we’re starting to think Dwayne Johnson has a thing for playing dancing dudes who’re girthier than he is in real life. In animated form as Disney demigod Maui, he’s got more of a booty to shake than we’re used to, but retains the People’s Eyebrow just so you won’t mistake him for anybody else. And while real-life Dwayne has a Samoan tattoo that tells his family story if you know how to decipher it, Maui has one that does that a lot more literally, in ways that transcend language.
It’ll be exciting to hear him sing again, too. Though Lin-Manuel Miranda‘s tunes may be a bit more sophisticated than the Rock’s older fare:
While the trailer format is following a pretty well-worn formula–straight-faced, serious legend with mere visual hints, sudden deflating joke that calls it into question, montage of spectacular visuals anyway–the Pacific island theme is a new one for Disney CG features (Lilo and Stitch, set in Hawaii, was hand-drawn and remains one of the studio’s best), and looks absolutely gorgeous. You’ll be able to catch it in 3D before Finding Dory, and I reckon no matter how good the movie is, traffic to Disney’s Aulani resort in Hawaii seems likely to explode afterward. Hell, I’m about ready to sell my car and head there myself. If I rent property nearby, would I be called a Moana leaser?
Also, that pig is gonna sell a ton of plushes.
Does this have you ready to sail to Oceania? Did you need any further proof that the Rock is half-god? Smack down your opinion in our comments below.
featured image: Disney