Disney just dropped the trailer for the new live action Moana and it’s safe to say fans are excited…and have some serious hairstyling thoughts.
In the new trailer, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson – who voiced the mighty Maui in the animated 2016 original and 2024 sequel – reprises his role in the flesh, sporting a new wig to complete the look. The film will follow the same storyline as the beloved Oscar®-nominated animated adventure, pairing new music and cast members with all the adventure and self-discovery of the original.
The film arrives with enormous anticipation, not only because the original 2016 animated feature became a global cultural touchstone, but also because this new reimagining promises deeper representation, lush Pacific locations, and an entirely fresh cinematic experience.
Directed by Emmy® and Tony Award® winner Thomas Kail (Hamilton), produced by Dwayne Johnson, Dany Garcia, Beau Flynn, Hiram Garcia and Lin-Manuel Miranda, and executive produced by Kail, Scott Sheldon, Charles Newirth and Auliʻi Cravalho (who voiced Moana in the animated films Moana and Moana 2), this highly anticipated 2026 film is sure to make waves (excuse the pun).
Keep reading for all the info you need to know about the Moana live-action remake.
What is the Moana live action about?
This upcoming film will be a live action remake of the original 2016 animated film, Moana. The screenplay was written by Dana Ledoux Miller and Jared Bush, who also wrote the script for 2016’s Moana.
In the film, audiences follow the journey of the adventurous and brave Moana, a teenager who embarks on a quest across the ocean to save her village on the island of Motunui. With her pet pig Pua and liable but lovable rooster Heihei by her side, Moana meets the trickster demigod Maui who agrees to help Moana on her quest to reclaim his title and favour amongst the gods.
Now with two animated films released in the franchise – Moana in 2016 and Moana 2 in 2024 – Moana is now one of the most popular Disney princesses, marking a major movement towards better representation in children’s films and inspiring the next generation of young adventurers.
When does the Moana live action premiere?
Audiences can watch the live action Moana exclusively in cinemas in Australia on July 8, 2026.
Who is in the Moana live action cast?
Catherine Lagaʻaia will star as Moana, a titular role for the young Samoan-English actress, and Dwayne Johnson will be reprising his role as the iconic demigod Maui.
In addition to Lagaʻaia and Johnson, the Moana cast includes John Tui as Moana’s father, Chief Tui, Frankie Adams as Moana’s mother, Sina, and Rena Owen as Moana’s Gramma Tala.
Are there any original songs in the Moana live action?
When we think of Moana, it’s hard not to think about the iconic soundtrack.
This live-action adaptation features an original score by Mark Mancina (who also composed the animated original), as well as original music by Lin-Manuel Miranda, Opetaia Foaʻi.
Are there any other trailers for the Moana live-action film?
Yes. On November 17, 2025 Disney released the first-look trailer for the live-action Moana movie.
Watch the full teaser trailer below.
Where can you watch the Moana live action in Australia?
Australian fans get to watch the film exclusively in cinemas when it’s released in July, 2026.
However, if you’re looking to catch up on the animated movies, Australian audiences can stream Moana and Moana 2 exclusively on Disney+.
If you don’t already have a Disney+ subscription, you’ll need to sign up to the streaming platform to tune in.
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