Disney's live-action Moana remake sets sail in 2026! Discover the first trailer, the new Moana actress Catherine Laga'aia, Dwayne Johnson's return as Maui, and all the magical details of this anticipated reimagining.
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Disney returns to the ocean with a live-action Moana that captures the magic of the original animated hit
The tide is coming in once again for the Moana live-action remake. Following the massive success of Lilo & Stitch, which proved Disney's live-action strategy remains a billion-dollar machine, the studio has finally unveiled the first glimpse of its next major reimagining. This new project isn't just another remake; it's a vibrant celebration of Pacific Islander culture, promising to bring the lush landscapes of Motunui and the vast, sentient ocean to life in a way we’ve never seen before.
For fans of the 2016 original, the wait for a real-world translation is nearly over. This production aims to stay true to the heart of the story while utilizing cutting-edge practical effects and stunning locations to ground the mythical adventure. With a cast that honors Polynesian heritage and the return of some very familiar faces behind the scenes, the Moana live-action remake is positioning itself as the must-watch cinematic event of the summer of 2026.
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| Catherine Laga'aia as Moana |
Who will star in the live-action Moana and who is behind the camera?
The most significant update for the Moana live-action remake is the introduction of Catherine Laga'aia as the titular heroine. At just 18 years old, the Sydney native makes her major film debut, stepping into the iconic role originally voiced by Auli'i Cravalho. Laga'aia has expressed immense pride in representing her Samoan roots, noting that her grandparents hail from Upolu and Savai'i, which adds a layer of authentic connection to the character's journey.
She is joined by a powerhouse cast including:
Dwayne Johnson reprising his role as the demigod Maui. Unlike his voice-only performance, Johnson is physically transforming for the role, wearing a suit that takes hours to apply each day to mirror Maui's tattooed, larger-than-life appearance.
John Tui as Chief Tui, Moana’s protective father.
Frankie Adams as Sina, Moana’s mother.
Rena Owen as the beloved Gramma Tala.
Directing the film is Thomas Kail, the Tony-winning director of the Broadway sensation Hamilton. While this marks his first major narrative feature, his history with high-energy musicals and his long-term collaboration with songwriter Lin-Manuel Miranda make him a natural fit for this adaptation. The screenplay is handled by original writer Jared Bush and Dana Ledoux Miller, ensuring the narrative stays anchored to the foundational story that made the animated version a global phenomenon.
What can we expect from the story and the first trailer?
The first teaser trailer, released in November 2025, offers a breathtaking look at the live-action world. It features Catherine Laga'aia performing "I am Moana (Song of the Ancestors)" against a backdrop of island dancing and crystalline waves. The clip concludes with a grand reveal of Dwayne Johnson as Maui, complete with his magical fishhook, signaling that the demigod's shapeshifting antics will be a central part of the visual spectacle.
The story follows the familiar and beloved path: a 14-year-old girl is chosen by the ocean to restore the heart of Te Fiti to save her dying island. Along the way, she must cross the reef, master the ancient art of wayfinding, and convince the stubborn Maui to help her face the monsters of the deep. Reports from the set in Hawaii and Atlanta suggest a production that prioritizes a "human versus the elements" angle, making Moana feel less like a traditional princess and more like a heroic action lead. This grounded approach aims to elevate the stakes while maintaining the musical soul that fans adore.
When is the Moana live-action remake coming to theaters?
Mark your calendars: the Moana live-action remake is scheduled for release on July 10, 2026. This date is significant as it coincides with the 10th anniversary of the original animated movie's release, making it a decade-long celebration of the franchise. Initially slated for 2025, Disney chose to push the release back to ensure there was breathing room between this film and the theatrical release of Moana 2 in late 2024.
As production wrapped in late 2024, the film is now deep in post-production to perfect the extensive visual effects required to bring the ocean and Maui’s tattoos to life. With the combined star power of Dwayne Johnson and the fresh energy of Catherine Laga'aia, will this live-action version be able to surpass the billion-dollar milestones set by its predecessors?
Moana Live-Action Remake: Essential Guide
Key answers and verified data about Disney's 2026 production.
| Data | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Teaser Premiere | Nov 17, 2025 | Disney / GamesRadar+ |
| Global Box Office (Moana 2) | $1 Billion | Variety / Deadline |
| Lead Writers | Jared Bush & Miller | Disney Official |
