Maui (Moana)
Maui is the deuteragonist of Disney's animated film Moana (2016) and its 2024 sequel. A powerful and charismatic demigod from South Pacific legend, Maui was once beloved by humanity for his heroic deeds. However, his desire for praise led him to steal Te Fiti's heart, unintentionally unleashing darkness that threatens Moana's island and her people.
A thousand years later, Moana is chosen by the ocean to find Maui and return the heart. A storm leads her to Maui's island, where the demigod attempts to steal her boat but is eventually persuaded to accompany her on her journey. Together, they bravely escape the pirate-like Kakamora and travel to Lalotai to retrieve Maui's fishhook, confronting the giant crab Tamatoa. Though Maui regains his hook, he struggles to shapeshift, and Moana inspires him to overcome his doubts. Their bond strengthens as Maui teaches Moana to wayfind, and she helps him rediscover his self-worth. Despite setbacks and a damaged hook, Maui ultimately returns to save Moana against Te Kā, who ends up being Te Fiti herself and, grateful for restoring the peace, gifts Maui a new hook.