Disney has released a new trailer for its highly-anticipated live-action adaptation of the beloved animated film Moana, offering audiences an expanded glimpse into the epic oceanic adventure. The new footage highlights Catherine Lagaʻaia in her breakout role as the courageous young wayfinder Moana, who hears the ocean's call and sets sail beyond the reef of her island home, Motunui.
Dwayne Johnson reprises his charismatic performance as the demigod Maui, joining her on a quest to restore balance and prosperity to her people. The trailer showcases stunning visuals of vast seas, mythical encounters, and vibrant island life, emphasizing the film's grand scale while staying true to the spirit of the original story.
Building on teaser materials released earlier, this latest trailer continues to position the project as both a respectful reimagining and an ambitious live-action musical spectacle. It features breathtaking cinematography that brings the Polynesian-inspired world to life in realistic detail, with dynamic sequences of sailing, ocean waves, and magical elements that promise to captivate viewers on the big screen.
Disney has also released the Artistry of Moana featurette alongside the trailer, providing an in-depth behind-the-scenes look at the film's craftsmanship.
The new poster, which debuted concurrently, captures the essence of the adventure with striking imagery of Moana and Maui against a dramatic ocean backdrop, further building excitement for the release.
The live-action film is directed by Thomas Kail, the Emmy and Tony Award-winning talent renowned for Hamilton. It is produced by Dwayne Johnson, Dany Garcia, Beau Flynn, Hiram Garcia, and Lin-Manuel Miranda. Disney notes that the movie includes original songs composed by Miranda, Opetaia Foaʻi, and Mark Mancina, complemented by an original score from Mancina. Auliʻi Cravalho, who originally voiced Moana in the animated features, joins the project as an executive producer, lending her insight to the adaptation.
The supporting cast includes John Tui as Chief Tui, Frankie Adams as Sina, and Rena Owen as Gramma Tala, rounding out the ensemble that brings Moana's family and community to life. The “Artistry of Moana” featurette incorporates insights from Johnson, Lagaʻaia, Kail, costume designer Liz McGregor, and choreographer Tiana Nonosina Liufau. Their commentary highlights the production's dedication to performance, movement, music, and expansive world-building, framing this not merely as a remake but as a thoughtfully crafted live-action event that celebrates cultural authenticity and cinematic spectacle.
Here is Disney's official synopsis for the live-action Moana film:
Moana answers the ocean’s call and ventures beyond the reef of Motunui with Maui on a journey tied to her people’s future. That basic framework was already established in Disney’s first teaser materials, and the new trailer continues the studio’s push to position the film as both a faithful reworking and a larger-scale live-action musical adventure.
The live-action Moana is scheduled to arrive in theaters on July 10, 2026. This release date marks a significant milestone, arriving a decade after the original animated film's debut and promising to deliver the sights, sounds, and songs of the story in a fresh, immersive format for a new generation of fans and longtime admirers alike. With its combination of star power, creative talent, and visual ambition, the project is poised to make waves at the box office next summer.
