Disney’s Moana 2 is already making waves, not just for revisiting the beloved characters of the Motunui people but for introducing new voices, stories, and cultural depth. Among the newcomers is  Hualālai Chung, a vibrant storyteller, actor, and musician who brings Moni—a passionate admirer of Maui and Polynesian heritage—to life. In my recent interview with Hualālai he shared his journey of embodying Moni, his personal connection to Polynesian culture, and how his creative ventures inspire future generations.

From Moni’s Heart to Hualālai’s Soul

When asked how he connected with Moni,  Hualālai lit up with enthusiasm, describing how the character’s passion for storytelling mirrored his own. “The same passion [Moni] has for the stories of the Motunui people and Maui is the same passion I have for our Pasifika culture and people,” he shared. Channeling his love for his heritage into Moni’s character felt natural for the actor, turning his dream of celebrating Polynesian culture on a global stage into a reality.

Moni’s character, introduced as part of Moana’s new crew, carries the heart of a storyteller, and  Hualālai took this role to new heights by infusing it with his own childhood wonder. “It was a dream to live out my childish wonders again,” he reflected. “I was able to channel that passion and love into Moni’s character.”

The Weight of Representation

For  Hualālai, Moana 2 was more than a career milestone—it was a cultural milestone. The film celebrates Polynesian heritage, its wayfinding traditions, and the richness of its people. “To see our culture vibrantly displayed and in such detail was probably the most emotional part for me,” he explained. “Representation is huge, and seeing our people represented by what Disney creates brings a lot of pride to our community.”

Hualālai emphasized the importance of authenticity, noting how the film’s cultural accuracy resonated with global audiences while honoring Polynesian ideals of love and respect. “To see that our stories resonate with different communities from around the world is heartwarming,” he said, his pride in the project unmistakable.

A Memorable Journey

Among the most unforgettable moments for  Hualālai was his first recording session at Disney’s Burbank animation studio. Working with Executive Producer and Writer Jared Bush,  Hualālai recorded one of Moni’s most iconic lines: “I have spent my whole life researching and re-telling some of the greatest stories of our people… and thanks to you, Moana… I get to be in one.”

“That moment was surreal,” he shared, recalling the flood of emotions that accompanied the line. “I saw my entire life—my family, friends, successes, and failures—flash before my eyes. I realized I was standing in Walt Disney Animation Studios, working on one of their biggest films. It’s a memory I’ll carry forever.”

The Relatable Charm of Moni

One of Moni’s most endearing qualities is his universal appeal. “He’s rooted in heart and almost a childish humor,”  Hualālai explained. “He’s ‘everybody’s best friend.’ Whether it’s his youthful joy or unsuspecting charisma, audiences will see a piece of themselves or someone they know in him.”

Beyond the Reel: A Multifaceted Artist

Hualālai’s journey didn’t start or stop with Moana 2. His roots in Hawai‘i, a background steeped in performing arts and storytelling, shaped his approach to acting. “Being from Hawai‘i, we’re exposed to so many cultures and characters. It’s natural for us to draw from that when approaching scenes,” he said.

Apart from acting, Hualālai is a talented musician with reggae roots and a new solo project. Balancing acting and music has been a natural extension of his creative expression. “Songwriting is an emotional outlet, allowing me to reflect and connect with myself,” he explained. He hopes his music, like his acting, resonates with audiences worldwide.

Inspiring Pasifika Generations

For Hualālai, inspiring the next generation of Pasifika talent is deeply personal. “Perform and live your life with your heart to the fullest,” he advised. “Do it for the lāhui (community), and you will always be a success.”

He also credits his deep connection to traditional crafts like weaving and woodworking with keeping him grounded. “These practices remind me that my ancestors did the same. I am a product of their work and growth,” he said.

Looking Ahead

As Hualālai gears up for his next big project—the live-action remake of Lilo & Stitch—he’s excited for audiences to see his fellow cast members shine, particularly Maia Kealoha as Lilo. “Being in an iconic Disney film is a dream, but sharing it with friends and family is even greater,” he shared.

Reflecting on his career so far, Hualālai expressed gratitude for the opportunities that have shaped him as an artist. “Working on Moana 2 pushed me into new styles of singing and performing,” he said. “With the guidance of an amazing team, I gained a fresh perspective on music and expression.”

A Legacy in the Making

Hualālai Chung’s journey is a testament to the power of storytelling and the importance of representation. Through Moni, he’s not just bringing a character to life—he’s shining a light on the richness of Polynesian culture, inspiring audiences worldwide to embrace their heritage and pursue their dreams. As Moni says in Moana 2, “Thanks to you, Moana… I get to be in one.” For Hualālai, the story is just beginning, and the ripples of his artistry are sure to turn into waves.

Photography Credit: Simone Komine