From Stream to Screen: Moana 2's Co-Director Reveals How a Planned Series Became an Animated Hit—and What Makes the Upcoming Live-Action Film Stand Out
As a child, Dana Ledoux Miller's mother would often bring her and her sibling to afternoon screenings of movies such as "The Little Mermaid," "Aladdin," and "Beauty and the Beast." Following these viewings, she would repeatedly play their soundtrack tapes until they wore out from use, belting out tunes alongside them and dreaming about being characters like Belle, Jasmine, Ariel, or another one of those iconic Disney princesses.
"It inspired me to share tales," Miller states.
However, she never imagined she would have the opportunity to take center stage in shaping the destiny of one of those iconic Disney heroines. As the co-writer and co-director of “Moana 2,” which became one of the year’s most successful releases in 2024, her dream came true. This follow-up movie, jointly directed by Jason Hand and David Derrick Jr., will premiere on Disney+ soon following its impressive earnings exceeding $1 billion globally. Initially, Miller had not planned to be involved in such a project, particularly aiming for theatrical release from the start. She was originally brought aboard as a consultant during the early stages when “Moana 2” was envisioned as a multi-part streaming series rather than a full-length 100-minute film. However, due to the immense popularity of the original Moana film amongst Disney+ viewers, the studio decided to pivot their strategy mid-way through development, leading to a frantic effort to transform the narrative into what we now see today.
Miller states, “There were significant cuts required.” He adds, “The narrative needed adjustment. Throughout the series, considerable focus was placed on her vessel’s team. However, since Moana’s name is part of the title, the movie had to emphasize this aspect. Consequently, we ensured that the supporting characters highlighted her growth as an effective leader.”
Miller, who identifies as Samoan, experienced a profound bond with the protagonist from "Moana," the determined offspring of a Polynesian tribal leader, upon watching the 2016 debut movie.
She recalls, 'I shed tears because I had never entered a Regal Cinema and listened to the stories of my community before. To hear one of those voices as a Disney princess transforms everything. It conveys that it’s alright to be Polynesian and embody strength, adventure, and humor.’ Seeing oneself depicted onscreen becomes profoundly impactful.
Miller spent her childhood in Long Beach, California, yet Hollywood seemed distant from her reality. Despite applying to several film schools, she failed to secure admission at any well-known program. Consequently, she enrolled at the University of Hawaii, which led to an unforeseen opportunity within reach. Through this chance, Miller managed to obtain an internship on the set of "Lost," the gripping ABC television drama being filmed in the region.
She recalls, 'There were so many other Pacific Islanders working alongside me,' which made her realize how vital various skill sets are when telling a story and the collective effort required from a team to make it happen. Working in such an environment served as an amazing hands-on learning experience.'
Before joining Disney to develop the universe of Motunui, she had worked on Netflix series such as "Narcos" and "Thai Cave Rescue." Having established herself in the entertainment industry, Miller now aims to create opportunities for other marginalized talents. To this end, she cofounded PEAK—Pasifika Entertainment Advancement Komiti—which provides networking and professional growth support within their community.
Unless we get to tell these stories, we won’t see ourselves reflected on the screens," Miller states. "Storytelling is crucial within our community, thus I aim to safeguard this tradition and continue delving into what it signifies to be a Pacific Islander.
She isn’t finished mapping out the journey for the spirited protagonist from the "Moana" series. Director Ron Clements Miller is collaborating with writer Jared Bush to pen the script for the upcoming live-action adaptation of "Moana." Renowned director Thomas Kail, known for his work on "Hamilton," takes charge of directing this new venture. Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson steps into the role of Maui, reprising the voice character from the original animation. Fresh talent Catherine Laga‘aia will take on the lead as Moana. According to Miller, she excels: “She held her own against Dwayne without batting an eyelash; fear didn’t seem part of her vocabulary.”
Miller states that the live-action film will pay homage to the classic animated version, yet she believes that depicting performers enduring harsh conditions will add greater emotional weight to the remake.
A 16-year-old girl sets out on a perilous voyage across open waters," explains Miller. "This raw essence truly shines in live-action scenes. It lends the film genuine human fragility, making it feel innovative and new.
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