Catherine Laga'aia, the star of Disney's live-action Moana, reflects on her journey to embodying the beloved character. Despite being a nepo baby, she brings 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. 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. This mindset has shaped her approach to acting, emphasizing the importance of effort and self-expression. As Moana, Laga'aia embraces her own identity, bringing a slightly older perspective to the character. She highlights the significance of representation, especially for Pacific Islander heritage, and the sense of community it brings to the film. Working with Dwayne Johnson and director Thomas Kail, she learns the value of being game and adaptable. The production's use of sound stages and CGI presents unique challenges, requiring physical interaction with the characters. Laga'aia's dedication to her craft is evident, as she even seeks mementos from the set, like the flower Moana wears. Despite her newfound fame, she remains grounded, aware of her privilege as a nepo baby. She embraces the opportunity to showcase her talent and hopes to explore diverse roles, including theater, blending her love for film and stage acting.
