Maui (Moana)

Maui
Moana character
First appearance	Moana (2016)
Created by	Ron Clements John Musker
Based on	Māui
Portrayed by	Dwayne Johnson
In-universe information
Species	Demigod
Title	Shapeshifter Demigod of the Wind and Sea Hero of Men and Women
Weapon	Fish hook
Nationality	Polynesian

Maui (/maʊwiː/) is a fictional character that appears in the 2016 Walt Disney Animation Studios animated film Moana. He was created by directors Ron Clements and John Musker and is voiced by American actor Dwayne Johnson. Maui is loosely based on the mythological figure Māui in Polynesian mythology. He is characterised as a demigod, trickster and shapeshifter and is distinguishable by his bulky tattooed body, thick, flowing hair and magical fish hook that allows him to shapeshift into various creatures. Maui's tattoos recount his deeds and feature an animated miniature version of himself that pokes fun at his overinflated ego. The character is due to return in the sequel film Moana 2. As of February 2024^[update], Moana 2 was scheduled to premier in November 2024. Johnson will also portray Maui in the live-action remake of Moana, which is scheduled for release in 2026.

In Moana, the title character Moana (Auliʻi Cravalho) sets sail to seek Maui in order to save her island from ecological disaster. She convinces him to accompany her on her voyage to recover his magical fish hook and restore the heart stone that he stole from the goddess Te Fiti. The story concept was inspired by various myths about Māui from across Polynesia, which Clements and Musker incorporated to create an original character.

Disney's version of the mythological figure has faced criticism from prominent Polynesians for cultural insensitivities, but has been positively received by critics who praised the charm and charisma of Johnson's performance, including for his vocals in the song "You're Welcome", which was written by American songwriter Lin-Manuel Miranda. Johnson has also received several award nominations and won a Teen Choice Award for voicing the character.