Disney are ready for you to sail the high seas and past that reed as tickets go on sale for the live-action Moana. Released in all cinemas on July 10, 2026, the film follows Moana and Maui’s epic journey.
This new trailer comes amongst a range of live-action remakes from Disney, including last year’s hugely popular Lilo & Stitch.
What Is Moana About?
The upcoming live action Disney film retells the story of the 2016 animated feature, following a young Polynesian girl who is chosen by the ocean to restore a mystical relic to the goddess Te Fiti. When her island is threatened, the young girl must sail the Pacific to seek help and save her people.
Moana’s synopsis reads, “Moana answers the Ocean’s call and, for the first time, voyages beyond the reef of her island of Motunui with the infamous demigod Maui on an unforgettable journey to restore prosperity to her people.”
If you’re worried that you’re basically going to see a shot-for-shot remake, fear not, the director told Polygon there were plenty of differences. “In the live-action movie, we have lots of things that are different. But you trust the story and material, and you try to give it a reason for being.”
He added: “When you’re doing something like Moana, there is a structure that exists. So there might be ways that you shuffle cards, but there are points along the way you need to honor. It’s also certainly about allowing interpretation so this particular form can be its own thing.”
Who Stars in the Live Action Moana?
Dwayne Johnson reprises his role as trickster demigod Maui in Moana. Jemaine Clement will also reprise his role as the voice of the giant, glitz-obsessed crab, Tamatoa.
Fans of the animated classic will also be thrilled to know that Heihei, the hapless chicken, will be making a comeback. Alan Tudkyk told Gold Derby that he isn’t returning and the hilarious rooster would be voiced by a female performer.
Joining the cast is Catherine Lagaʻaia as the determined Moana, Rena Owen as Moana’s beloved Gramma Tala, John Tui as her strict father, Chief Tui and Frankie Adams as Moana’s spirited mother, Sina.
Catherine Laga’aia was especially excited to take over the role from Auliʻi Cravalho. “I’m really excited to embrace this character because Moana is one of my favorites,” she said in a Disney press release.
“My grandfather comes from Fa’aala, Palauli, in Savai’i. And my grandmother is from Leulumoega Tuai on the main island of ‘Upolu in Samoa. I’m honored to have an opportunity to celebrate Samoa and all Pacific Island peoples, and to represent young girls who look like me.”
Who Is The Team Behind The Live Action Film
The 2026 reimaging of Moana is directed by Thomas Kail, who previously adapted the Hamilton stage show and the 2020 adaptation. He won a Tony Award for his work on Hamilton, alongside helming episodes of 2 Broke Girls, Up Here, and We Were the Lucky Ones.
Talking of Hamilton, Lin Manual Miranda’s music returns in Moana, with the songwriters Opetaia Foaʻi, and Mark Mancina, and an original score composed by Mancina.
The film is produced by Dwayne Johnson, Beau Flynn, Dany Garcia, Hiram Garcia, and Lin-Manuel Miranda. It is executive produced by Scott Sheldon, Charles Newirth, Kail, and Auliʻi Cravalho.
Watch The Moana Trailer Here
The new trailer for Moana features call back scenes to the 2016 family favourite alongside new scenes. Expect more music, more dancing and more lovable sidekicks.
The clip sees Moana and demigod Maui embark on their daring ocean voyage as well as showing us a glimpse of coconut-shaped Kakamora and the lava monster the duo encounters.
The live-action remake of Moana is in theaters July 10. Looking to book your tickets? You can book them here. Watch the new trailer below.
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