Catherine Laga'aia, the star of Disney's live-action 'Moana', has a unique perspective on her role. As a 17-year-old actress of Samoan descent, she took on the iconic character, resonating with audiences worldwide. But what makes her journey particularly fascinating is her family background and the pressure that came with playing a beloved Disney princess.
Laga'aia's father, Jay Laga'aia, is a renowned actor known for his role as Captain Typho in the Star Wars prequel films. Growing up watching her father's success, she developed a deep respect for his dedication and passion. This influenced her own approach to acting, emphasizing the importance of effort and self-investment in every audition.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Laga'aia's journey is her ability to bring her own identity to the role. She acknowledges the pressure of living up to the animated version of Moana, but her unique perspective as a 17-year-old allowed her to add a fresh take to the character. Her version of Moana is slightly older, reflecting her own experiences leaving school and embarking on a new adventure.
The live-action film also brought together a diverse cast, representing various Pacific Islander heritages. Laga'aia highlights the sense of community and family that emerged on set, with everyone referring to each other as 'uncle' or 'auntie'. This sense of unity is a powerful aspect of the film, uniting characters from different islands under the common identity of 'Motunui'.
Working with Dwayne Johnson, Laga'aia learned the value of being game and adaptable. She appreciates Johnson's willingness to try anything, which sets a positive example for her and the rest of the cast. This collaborative spirit is evident in the film's production, where the cast and crew worked together to create a unique and captivating world.
Despite the challenges of working with CGI and blue screens, Laga'aia found joy in the process. She appreciates the opportunity to work with the 2016 animated film as a reference, allowing her to understand the characters better. The physical interactions with the CGI characters, like Heihei the rooster, added a layer of complexity to her performance.
Laga'aia's journey is a testament to the power of representation and the impact it can have on audiences. As she reflects on her role, she acknowledges the nepotism jokes, but her focus remains on the importance of her character and the message of unity and self-discovery that the film conveys. Her journey is a reminder that acting is a deeply personal and transformative experience, and her unique perspective adds a layer of depth to the beloved Disney franchise.
