Disney reveals new trailer for live-action Moana featuring Dwayne Johnson’s return as Maui.
Disney has released a new trailer for the live-action reimagining of Moana. It offers audiences a closer look at the studio’s adaptation of the beloved animated adventure. The film stars Catherine Lagaʻaia as Moana, a courageous young voyager who answers the Ocean’s call and journeys beyond the reef of her island home, Motunui.
The new footage provides an official look at Dwayne Johnson as Maui, the legendary demigod Johnson originally voiced in the 2016 animated film. Maui’s signature tattoos, magical fishhook, humor, and larger-than-life personality appear faithfully recreated, reinforcing Disney’s effort to preserve the character fans embraced in the animated version.
In the story, Moana sets out on an unforgettable journey to restore prosperity to her people. Along the way, she partners with Maui as they travel across dangerous waters, encounter mythological threats, and rediscover the voyaging traditions that define her heritage.
Building on the Legacy of the Animated Films
The live-action adaptation draws inspiration from the Oscar-nominated animated film Moana, which premiered in 2016 and became one of Disney’s most beloved modern animated features. The film introduced audiences to Moana’s journey of identity, courage, and leadership, supported by music that became widely celebrated.
The story expanded with Moana 2, continuing Moana’s journey and reinforcing the franchise’s cultural and emotional impact. Together, the animated films helped establish Moana as one of Disney’s most recognizable contemporary heroes.
The live-action version maintains strong creative continuity with the animated films. The movie features original songs by Lin-Manuel Miranda, Opetaia Foaʻi, and Mark Mancina, with Mancina composing the score. Auliʻi Cravalho, who voiced Moana in the animated films, returns as an executive producer.
Award-Winning Creative Team Guides the Reimagining
The film is directed by Emmy and Tony Award winner Thomas Kail, known for directing the filmed version of Hamilton. Producers include Dwayne Johnson, Dany Garcia, Beau Flynn, Hiram Garcia, and Lin-Manuel Miranda.
The creative team aims to deliver a cinematic experience that captures the emotional core, music, and sense of adventure that made the original film resonate with audiences while expanding the scope through live-action visuals.
Film Details
- Director: Thomas Kail
- Writers: Jared Bush, Dana Ledoux Miller
- Cast: Catherine Lagaʻaia as Moana, Dwayne Johnson as Maui, John Tui, Frankie Adams, Rena Owen, Temuera Morrison and Nicole Scherzinger
- Release Date: 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.
