Disney has officially unveiled the first teaser for its highly anticipated live-action adaptation of the beloved animated classic Moana. The film arrives in theaters on July 10, 2026, introducing 17-year-old Catherine Lagaʻaia as the wayfinder Moana, while Dwayne Johnson reprises his iconic role as the shapeshifting demigod Maui. The teaser offers audiences a stunning first glimpse at the reimagined adventure, complete with a new rendition of the film’s signature song “How Far I’ll Go” and a fleeting look at Johnson’s transformative abilities as he shifts into a hawk.
The live-action Moana stars Catherine Lagaʻaia in her film debut, making her one of the most promising emerging talents in Hollywood. The supporting cast includes Auckland native John Tui as Chief Tui, Moana’s no-nonsense father; Samoan-New Zealand actress Frankie Adams as Sina, Moana’s playful mother; and New Zealand’s Rena Owen as Gramma Tala, Moana’s revered grandmother. The film is directed by Emmy and Tony Award winner Thomas Kail, known for bringing Hamilton to the screen, with Lin-Manuel Miranda returning to compose the music.
The Story Behind the Adaptation
In Disney’s live-action reimagining, Moana answers the Ocean’s call for the first time and voyages beyond the reef of her island of Motunui alongside the demigod Maui on an unforgettable journey to restore prosperity to her people. The narrative follows the same beloved storyline as the 2016 animated film while bringing new life to the characters and world through live-action cinematography.
Production was supervised by a powerhouse creative team. Dwayne Johnson serves as both lead actor and producer through Seven Bucks Productions alongside his business partners Dany Garcia and Hiram Garcia. Producer Beau Flynn, Lin-Manuel Miranda, and Auli’i Cravalho (the original voice of Moana) serve as executive producers, ensuring the film honors the spirit of the animated classic while offering audiences something entirely fresh.
Where and When to Watch Moana Live-Action
United States
The film will premiere theatrically across the United States on July 10, 2026. Tickets will be available through Fandango, where fans can check showtimes at theaters near them and secure their seats early. Following its theatrical window, the film is expected to arrive on Disney+ a few months after its cinema release, allowing households across America to experience the adventure from home.
United Kingdom
UK audiences will welcome Moana into cinemas on July 10, 2026, with the film expected to release simultaneously with the United States. After the theatrical run concludes, the film will transition to Disney+ UK, offering viewers in the region access to stream the adventure on demand.
Australia
Australian cinema enthusiasts can expect the live-action Moana to sail into theaters around July 2026, aligning with the global release date. Following its theatrical run, the film will become available on Disney+ Australia for subscribers. The film is expected to be released in IMAX format, offering an immersive visual experience for fans seeking the ultimate cinema adventure.
Behind the Scenes of the Live-Action Adventure
The live-action production began filming in August 2024 across Atlanta and Hawaii, with principal photography wrapping in November 2024. Director Thomas Kail made his narrative feature directorial debut with this project, building on his success with the Disney+ recording of Hamilton and episodes of Hulu’s We Were the Lucky Ones.
The screenplay was crafted by Jared Bush, a veteran of Disney Animation who wrote the original 2016 film, and Dana Ledoux Miller, a Samoan writer and co-founder of Pasifika Entertainment Advancement Komiti (PEAK). This collaboration ensures authentic representation and cultural respect in bringing Polynesian traditions, legends, and stories to the big screen.
The Cultural Significance
Dwayne Johnson emphasized the profound meaning of this project in his initial announcement on social media in April 2023, stating that this story represents his culture and the grace, mana, and warrior strength of Polynesian people. Johnson wore his culture proudly, describing the opportunity to reunite with Maui as inspired by the spirit of his late grandfather, High Chief Peter Maivia.
The original animated Moana premiered in 2016 and achieved critical acclaim, receiving Oscar nominations. Its 2024 sequel, Moana 2, became a box-office phenomenon, making this live-action adaptation a natural expansion of one of Disney’s most successful franchises.
Official Trailer and Marketing
The official teaser trailer was released on November 17, 2025, and is available on YouTube through Disney’s official channels. The trailer showcases the majestic island of Motunui, the vibrant Polynesian people, the intimidating yet adorable Kakamora tribe, and features Lagaʻaia delivering the powerful line “I Am Moana.” Fans can also follow official announcements through Disney’s official website.
For the most current information on showtimes, tickets, and streaming options, visit Fandango for North American cinemas or check your regional Disney+ platform in the UK and Australia.
