'Moana': the live-action remake dazzles with its first trailer
The film will hit theaters on July 10, 2026, marking the shortest gap between a Disney animated film and its live-action remake: just ten years since its original release in 2016.
Still from 'Moana', from its official teaser.
Disney unveiled the first trailer for the live-action version of Moana, offering a glimpse of the magical Pacific Ocean, the vibrant village of Motunui and the cast that will bring this new adaptation to life.
The film will hit theaters on July 10, 2026, marking the shortest gap between a Disney animated film and its live-action remake: a mere ten years since its original release in 2016.
Catherine Laga'aia, the new Moana
The protagonist of this version will be Catherine Laga'aia, a young 18-year-old Australian actress with deep Samoan roots. In the trailer, Laga'aia appears sailing with determination and singing the iconic "How Far I'll Go," one of the animated film's most memorable moments.
The actress, proud of her heritage, stressed to Variety magazine how meaningful it is for her to take on this role:
"I’m honored to have an opportunity to celebrate Samoa and all Pacific Island peoples, and to represent young girls who look like me." Her family hails from Fa'aala, Palauli (Savai'i) and Leulumoega Tuai ('Upolu), something that adds authenticity to her portrayal of a character deeply connected to Polynesian culture.
The return of Maui and a production that looks to its origins
Dwayne Johnson returns to play Maui, the charismatic demigod who accompanies Moana on her journey. The actor, of Samoan descent, also participates as a producer, reinforcing his commitment to a faithful representation of the culture that inspired the story.
But Johnson is not the only one returning. Auli'i Cravalho, the original voice of Moana in 2016, is part of the new production as an executive producer. In a message shared in 2023, Cravalho explained why she decided not to play the character again:
"I believe it is absolutely vital that the casting accurately represents the characters and stories we want to tell, so as an executive producer on the film, I cannot wait to help find the next actress to portray Moana’s courageous spirit, undeniable wit, and emotional strength."
A cast that celebrates the spirit of Motunui
- John Tui as Chief Tui, Moana's father
- Frankie Adams as Sina, her mother
- Rena Owen as Grandma Tala
The creative team reprises some of the talent from the original: Jared Bush returns as co-writer alongside Dana Ledoux Miller, and Mark Mancina returns to handle the music. Lin-Manuel Miranda will produce the project, while Thomas Kail will direct the film.
A journey that promises to honor a generation
With a mix of new stars, expected returns and a deep respect for the cultural roots that inspired the story, the Moana remake is shaping up to be one of Disney's most emotional and representative productions in recent years.
The trailer already made its goal clear: to pay tribute to the spirit of the ocean, the culture of the Pacific and a heroine who inspired millions of young people around the world.
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