Entertainment

Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson defines 'real masculinity' at 'Moana's' new look

Dwayne Johnson explains who the real hero is in 'Moana' as the film's new look debuted

Published April 18, 2026
Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson defines 'real masculinity' at 'Moana's' new look
  Dwayne Johnson teases new 'Moana' footage at CinemaCon

For Dwayne Johnson, "real masculinity" is not muscles or a similar archetype. Instead, it is about supporting women.

Appearing at CinemaCon, where the new look of the upcoming live-action is debuted, The Rock introduced his co-star Catherine Laga’aia, who plays Moana, but not before a few thoughtful remarks about her character.

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“The hero of our story is not a princess; she’s a warrior,” he told the audience in Las Vegas, adding, “All men of all ages, we should empower and support and champion all women. That’s what real masculinity looks like.”

In addition, Johnson reflects on his connection with Maui, stating, “The animated version was just an amazing experience for us as Polynesian people. Maui has been with me for over a decade, and to have the opportunity to bring this powerful and vulnerable demigod to life means so much to me."

The film's logline read, "In Moana, Disney’s live-action reimagining of the beloved Oscar®-nominated animated adventure, Moana (Catherine Lagaʻaia) answers the ocean's call and, for the first time, voyages beyond the reef of her island of Motunui with the infamous demigod Maui (Dwayne Johnson) on an unforgettable journey to restore prosperity to her people."

The live-action Moana hits cinemas on July 10.

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