Hawaiian-Language Versions of Moana Movies Available for Streaming on Disney+
Exciting news for Disney fans! Disney+ is bringing us the Hawaiian-language versions of Moana and Moana 2, just in time for Mahina ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi (Hawaiian Language Month). If you loved the original films, you’ll be happy to hear that Auliʻi Cravalho, the talented star of both movies, is back as Moana for these special dubs.
But that’s not all – for Moana 2, Hualālai Chung joins Cravalho as Moni, in a production by Kūmau Productions in collaboration with Hui Huliʻau, DTL Hawaiʻi, Awaiaulu, and The Walt Disney Studios. The official premiere is scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 7, at the Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, Hawaii’s State Museum of Natural and Cultural History.
The Hawaiian Moana 2 features a fantastic lineup of Hawaiian talent, including Kaipu Baker as Maui, Pualalea Panaewa as Loto, Moses Goods as Kele, and Kauʻi Kaina as Matangi. This version was expertly produced by Auliʻi Cravalho along with Lāiana Kanoa-Wong and Ty Sanga from Moana 2 Oceanic Cultural Trust.
Auliʻi Cravalho shared, “As someone who grew up surrounded by ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi, it means the world to see our language celebrated and shared in this way, especially during Mahina ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi. This project honors our kūpuna, our keiki, and the future of our language.” And Laiana Kanoa-Wong added, “There are few moments in our lifetime where we get to witness the power of our language being uplifted on a global platform, releasing these films during Mahina ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi is intentional and meaningful.”
The storytelling in Moana and Moana 2 draws on real-world history and culture, with the filmmakers working closely with the Oceanic Cultural Trust to ensure authenticity. The use of traditional chanting and local dialects deepens the connection to Hawaiian culture, making these movies not just entertainment, but a celebration of language and heritage.
It’s amazing to see indigenous language media become more accessible and celebrated on a global scale. Without a doubt, these Hawaiian versions of Moana and Moana 2 will resonate with audiences worldwide, connecting us to the beautiful language and culture of Hawaii.
