Disney hasn’t gone after truly huge names for its recent animated movies, but that looks set to change with Moana. Dwayne Johnson is in talks to bring his deep tones to the voice of demi-god Maui.
The film will tell the story of adventurous teenager Moana, who sets out on a seemingly impossible mission to fulfil her ancestors’ quest. Born in the ancient South Pacific locale of Oceania, the natural navigator is making it her mission to find a fabled island. On her journey, she’ll join forces with her hero - Johnson’s Maui, if he signs on - and must brave all manner of challenges, including giant sea creatures, as she tries to reach her destination.
The new film comes from Ron Clements and John Musker, the people who brought the world Aladdin, The Princess And The Frog and The Little Mermaid. Voicing a legendary character seems fitting for The Rock, even if he hadn’t played Hercules this year.
He’ll be a little more mortal – well, as mortal as he ever gets – in Fast & Furious 7, which drives in on April 3. He’ll also be seen in disaster drama San Andreas (due May 29) and has been at work on a new HBO show, Ballers.