The big guy in Moana is Maui, a legendary demigod central to the film's narrative.
Maui is a significant and powerful character in the Disney animated film, known for his imposing stature, magical fishhook, and remarkable ability to shapeshift. He plays a pivotal role in Moana's journey to restore the heart of Te Fiti and save her people.
Understanding Maui: The Demigod of Wind and Sea
Maui is depicted as a charismatic, often boastful, but ultimately heroic figure inspired by Polynesian mythology. In Disney's Moana, he is famously voiced by Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, lending a unique blend of humor, strength, and vulnerability to the character. His dynamic alongside Moana drives much of the story, exploring themes of redemption, humility, and the true meaning of heroism.
Key Aspects of Maui's Character
- Central Role in the Story: Maui is responsible for stealing the heart of Te Fiti, an act that plunged the islands into an ecological blight. Moana seeks him out to compel him to help her return it and reverse the spreading darkness.
- Powers and Abilities: As a demigod, Maui possesses immense superhuman strength, resilience, and immortality. His iconic magical fishhook is the source of his shapeshifting powers, allowing him to transform into various animals, such as a hawk or a lizard.
- Personality and Arc: Initially portrayed as arrogant and self-centered, obsessed with regaining his lost glory, Maui undergoes a significant character arc. He learns to overcome his past mistakes, embrace responsibility, and discover a deeper sense of self-worth beyond his accolades, becoming a true "Hero of Men and Women."
Maui's Profile
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| Name | Maui |
| Species | Demigod |
| Title | Shapeshifter Demigod of the Wind and Sea Hero of Men and Women |
| Portrayed by | Dwayne Johnson (voice actor in the animated film; also for the 2026 live-action film) |
For more comprehensive information about the character, you can visit the Maui (Moana) Wikipedia page.
