Catherine Laga'aia, the star of Disney's live-action Moana, reflects on her journey to embodying the beloved character. Despite being just 17 when she made her film debut, she brought her own unique perspective to the role, drawing from her Samoan heritage and personal experiences. Laga'aia's journey to landing the lead role was unexpected, as she beat out 32,000 applicants in an open casting call on Instagram. Her father, Jay Laga'aia, a well-known actor, has been a source of inspiration and guidance. He taught her the importance of treating every audition as a job, giving it her all, and bringing her authentic self to each role.
In an interview, Laga'aia discusses her approach to playing Moana, emphasizing the importance of making the character her own. She highlights the significance of representation, particularly for Pacific Islander heritage, and the sense of community she felt on set. Working with Dwayne Johnson and director Thomas Kail, she learned the value of being game and adaptable. The production's use of sound stages and CGI added a unique challenge, requiring her to interact with props and characters that would later be enhanced digitally.
Laga'aia's journey to stardom is not without its challenges. She acknowledges the newfound attention and the pressure that comes with it, but remains grounded in her passion for acting. She embraces her status as a 'nepo baby,' knowing that her family's connections have opened doors, but she also emphasizes the importance of her own talent and hard work. Looking ahead, she expresses excitement about exploring indie projects and returning to her theater roots, finding a balance between screen and stage acting.
As Laga'aia prepares for the film's release, she invites audiences to connect with her on a deeper level, sharing her personal experiences and growth. Her journey from a relatively unknown actress to a leading role in a beloved franchise is a testament to her dedication and talent, leaving fans eager to see her future endeavors.
