| Maui | |
|---|---|
| Moana character | |
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| First appearance | Moana (2016) |
| Created by | Ron Clements John Musker |
| Based on | Māui |
| Voiced by | |
| Portrayed by | Dwayne Johnson (2026 film) |
| In-universe information | |
| Species | Demigod |
| Title |
|
| Weapon | Fish hook |
| Nationality | Polynesian |
Maui (/maʊwiː/) is a fictional character that appears in the 2016 Walt Disney Animation Studios animated film Moana. He was created by directors Ron Clements and John Musker and is voiced by American actor Dwayne Johnson. Maui is loosely based on the mythological figure Māui in Polynesian mythology. He is characterised as a demigod, trickster and shapeshifter and is distinguishable by his bulky tattooed body, thick, flowing hair and magical fish hook that allows him to shapeshift into various creatures. Maui's tattoos recount his deeds and feature an animated miniature version of himself that pokes fun at his overinflated ego. The character is due to return in the sequel film Moana 2. As of February 2024[update], Moana 2 was scheduled to premier in November 2024. Johnson will also portray Maui in the live-action remake of Moana, which is scheduled for release in 2026.
In Moana, the title character Moana (Auliʻi Cravalho) sets sail to seek Maui in order to save her island from ecological disaster. She convinces him to accompany her on her voyage to recover his magical fish hook and restore the heart stone that he stole from the goddess Te Fiti. The story concept was inspired by various myths about Māui from across Polynesia, which Clements and Musker incorporated to create an original character.
Disney's version of the mythological figure has faced criticism from prominent Polynesians for cultural insensitivities, but has been positively received by critics who praised the charm and charisma of Johnson's performance, including for his vocals in the song "You're Welcome", which was written by American songwriter Lin-Manuel Miranda. Johnson has also received several award nominations and won a Teen Choice Award for voicing the character.
- ^ "Maui Voices (Moana)". Behind the Voice Actors. Retrieved September 27, 2024. A green check mark indicates that a role has been confirmed using a screenshot (or collage of screenshots) of a title's list of voice actors and their respective characters found in its credits or other reliable sources of information.
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