Disney has released the first trailer for its live-action reimagining of Moana. It is set to sail into theaters on July 10, 2026. The film stars newcomer Catherine Lagaʻaia as Moana and Dwayne Johnson, who returns as the beloved demigod Maui. The new footage offers a sweeping look at Motunui and reintroduces audiences to one of Disney’s most popular modern heroes.
The trailer highlights the film’s grounded yet vibrant approach, showcasing the island’s lush environments, cultural details, and the early beats of Moana’s journey. Viewers get a quick glimpse of the shapeshifting Maui, the playful Kakamora, and Lagaʻaia’s stirring delivery of “I Am Moana,” a moment sure to excite longtime fans of the franchise.
A New Cast Brings Motunui to Life
In addition to Lagaʻaia and Johnson, the ensemble includes actors from across the Pacific who bring authenticity to the film’s world. John Tui stars as Chief Tui, Moana’s stern but loving father. Frankie Adams portrays her spirited mother, Sina. Rena Owen appears as Gramma Tala, the village’s spiritual anchor who supports Moana’s drive to embrace her destiny.
The casting reflects Disney’s continued focus on representation and cultural specificity. Each actor brings regional ties and lived experience to the production, reinforcing the spirit that defined the original animated film.
Retelling a Modern Classic
Directed by Emmy and Tony Award winner Thomas Kail, the live-action film revisits the 2016 animated feature, which earned an Academy Award nomination and became a cultural touchstone. This new version follows Moana as she heeds the Ocean’s call for the first time and journeys beyond Motunui’s reef alongside Maui. Together, they embark on a mission to restore prosperity to her people.
Producers include Dwayne Johnson, Beau Flynn, Dany Garcia, Hiram Garcia, and Lin-Manuel Miranda. Executive producers include Kail, Scott Sheldon, Charles Newirth, and Auliʻi Cravalho, who voiced Moana in the animated films Moana and Moana 2.
A Big-Screen Return to the Ocean
The live-action Moana promises grand visuals, sweeping musical moments, and a renewed focus on Polynesian storytelling. Disney aims to blend the films’ emotional core with fresh cinematic scale, bringing the story to a new generation.
Audiences can experience Moana and Maui’s adventure when the film opens in theaters on July 10, 2026.
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Sean Tajipour
Sean Tajipour is the Founder and Editor of Nerdtropolis and the host of the Moviegoers Society and Reel Insights Podcast. He is also a member of the Critics Choice Association. You can follow on Twitter and Instagram @Seantaj.
