Moana Waialiki is the courageous, empathetic daughter of Motunui’s village chief, whose deep, lifelong connection to the ocean leads her to be chosen as the savior of her people. When a dark blight threatens her island, she defies her father’s strict rules against going beyond the reef, setting sail into the open sea to find the demigod Maui and return the stolen Heart of Te Fiti. Throughout her epic voyage, Moana transforms from an eager village leader into a master wayfinder, learning to read the stars, waves, and winds while discovering that true strength comes from self-reliance, leadership, and unwavering compassion.

Maui is a larger-than-life demigod of Polynesian legend whose immense physical strength, boisterous charisma, and magical, shapeshifting fishhook make him a legendary figure across the ocean. Abandoned as an infant, he was raised by the gods and given his enchanted hook, which grants him the ability to transform into creatures like hawks, sharks, and lizards. His body is covered in living tattoos that tell the stories of his heroic deeds—such as pulling islands from the sea and stealing fire for humanity—including "Mini-Maui," a tiny, animated version of himself that serves as his conscience. Though his grand swagger and need for human approval initially lead him to steal the Heart of Te Fiti, his journey alongside Moana helps him realize that his true value lies in his character and heroism rather than his magical powers.