Maui is a central character in Disney’s 2016 animated feature film Moana, serving as the deuteragonist alongside the titular protagonist. Voiced by Dwayne Johnson, Maui is portrayed as a boisterous demigod from South Pacific legend, known for his larger-than-life personality and heroic deeds. He wields a magical fish hook that grants him the ability to shapeshift into various animals, a power he frequently employs throughout the narrative.

According to the film’s lore, Maui was born to human parents who, rejecting him, cast him into the sea as an infant. The gods rescued and raised him, bestowing upon him supernatural abilities, immortality, and his iconic fish hook. Driven by a deep-seated desire for human acceptance and love, Maui performed numerous feats to benefit humanity, such as pulling islands from the sea, slowing the sun to extend daylight, and stealing fire to provide warmth. These acts were motivated by his longing to earn the admiration he was denied by his parents.

In his quest to further please humanity, Maui stole the heart of Te Fiti, the mother island, believing it would be the ultimate gift to mortals. This act, however, led to catastrophic consequences, including the emergence of the lava demon Te Kā and a spreading darkness that threatened the world. During his confrontation with Te Kā, Maui lost both the heart and his magical fish hook, leading to his banishment to a desolate island. Centuries later, he is sought out by Moana, the chosen one destined to restore the heart and save their world.

Maui’s character arc in Moana is one of redemption and self-discovery. Initially depicted as self-centered and egotistical, his journey with Moana allows him to confront his past mistakes and insecurities. Through their partnership, Maui learns the value of humility, teamwork, and self-acceptance, ultimately aiding Moana in restoring the heart of Te Fiti and bringing balance back to their world.

The character of Maui is loosely based on the mythological figure Māui from Polynesian mythology, who is celebrated as a demigod, trickster, and shapeshifter. In these legends, Māui is known for his exploits, such as fishing up islands and capturing the sun, narratives that inspired his portrayal in the film.

In the 2024 sequel, Moana 2, Maui continues his journey alongside Moana, facing new challenges and adversaries. The film delves deeper into his backstory and personal growth, exploring themes of vulnerability and the importance of seeking help, reflecting broader messages about mental health and personal development.

Dwayne Johnson, who voices Maui, has shared that his portrayal of the character was inspired by his late grandfather, Peter Maivia, a Samoan high chief and wrestler known for his charisma and larger-than-life persona. Johnson has expressed that embodying Maui allows him to honor his grandfather’s legacy and connect with his Polynesian heritage.

Maui’s character resonates with audiences as a complex figure who embodies both the flaws and virtues of humanity. His journey from a flawed demigod seeking validation to a true hero who understands the value of selflessness and inner strength serves as a compelling narrative of growth and redemption.