How cultural consultants helped shape the live-action ‘Moana’

Disney's live-action Moana is placing cultural authenticity at the heart of its storytelling, with cultural consultation playing a pivotal role in bringing the world of Oceania to life. Production worked closely with Grant Muāgututiʻa (lead consultant, cultural trust), Tiana Nonosina Liufau (choreographer, associate producer, cultural trust), Kayla Faʻamaligi (assistant choreographer, cultural trust) and Opetaia Foa'i (songwriter) to help shape everything from choreography and costume, to language, music, and ceremony, ensuring cultural elements are portrayed accurately. This collaborative approach not only strengthens the film's authenticity but also gives Pacific Islander voices a meaningful place in the creative process.

Muāgututiʻa, an associate professor of linguistics at California State University San Marcos and holds a doctorate in linguistics from the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa and a masters in linguistics from the University of Auckland in Aotearoa New Zealand, wanted to ensure the culture's deeply rooted tradition of respect was authentically represented. He shares, “Respect is a huge thing in our culture,” and “when Pacific Islanders watch that, they’ll say yes, that’s how we treat our elders, that is how we sit, this is how we speak, and it’s on a global stage.”

The impact extends far beyond the screen. In our conversation with some of the consultants, they expressed the importance of accurate and respectful representation—which allows audiences around the world to experience the richness and diversity of Polynesian cultures while offering Pacific Islander communities the opportunity to see aspects of their heritage reflected with dignity in a major Hollywood production. It’s a visibility that can foster pride, belonging, and a deeper appreciation of their cultural identity.

Liufau shares about the choreography, “It’s not just moves. It upholds stories, and it’s so much more.” She reflects on how movement for each group varies based on time and environment. “Beyond the dance, are we conducting ourselves in a Polynesian way, not just performing it. We want you all to know how we are, what we look like, and what we are about.”

Moana, which stars Catherine Lagaʻaia as the title character and Dwayne Johnson reprising his role as the demigod Maui, serves as an example of how collaboration with the communities being represented can elevate a film artistically while building trust with audiences. By embracing authentic choreography and ongoing cultural consultation, the live-action adaptation reinforces that representation is not simply about who appears on screen—it is about honoring the traditions, histories, and voices that make those stories meaningful.

Foaʻi, who also wrote music for Moana, reflects on how the sailors and navigators are worthy of recognition, which he shares in the song, “We know the way.” He says it’s written for the ancestors.