Live-Action ‘Moana’ Trailer Unveils New Adventure for 2026 Release

LOS ANGELES, CA — Disney has officially released the trailer for its live-action remake of the beloved 2016 animated film, ‘Moana.’ Directed by Thomas Kail, the film is set to hit theaters on July 10, 2026.

Catherine Laga'aia stars as the titular character, Moana, who embarks on a quest to save her island of Motunui with the help of Maui, played by Dwayne Johnson. The trailer features Laga’aia singing ‘How Far I’ll Go,’ echoing the original film’s soundtrack, while showcasing the vibrant world of Motunui and iconic characters.

Joining the cast are John Tui as Chief Tui, Moana’s father; Frankie Adams as her mother, Sina; and Rena Owen as Gramma Tala. The film promises to capture the essence of the animated classic as Moana, a passionate wayfinder, sets sail across the ocean alongside the shape-shifting demigod, Maui.

Kail directs the movie from a script penned by Jared Bush and Dana Ledoux Miller, with Johnson serving as a producer alongside Beau Flynn and Lin-Manuel Miranda, who co-wrote the original film’s music. Executive producers include Auli'i Cravalho, who voiced Moana in the animated film and its 2024 sequel.

The new adaptation takes advantage of technology to bring the story’s excitement to live-action, aiming to build on the original’s success, which grossed $643 million worldwide. Critics noted the animated feature’s critical acclaim, which included an Oscar nomination for Miranda’s song ‘How Far I’ll Go.’

Disney has been focusing on live-action remakes in recent years, with films like ‘Lilo & Stitch’ and ‘Snow White’ also showcasing the studio’s strategy to revisit its animated classics. With high expectations, the ‘Moana’ live-action film prepares to bring a new generation of viewers into the journey of Moana and Maui.

As anticipation builds, the film’s first trailer indicates that Disney aims to offer a fresh yet faithful adaptation of its beloved story. Fans are eager to see the characters brought to life once more as the movie gets closer to its theatrical release.