Dwayne Johnson and Auli’i Cravalho Pass teh Torch in First Look at Live-Action ‘Moana‘
A new voyage is beginning. Disney has released the first teaser trailer for its live-action adaptation of Moana, offering a glimpse of the beloved story reimagined for a new generation. The film, slated for release on July 10, 2026, stars Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson reprising his role as the demigod Maui and introduces Catherine Laga’aia as Moana.
The live-action Moana follows the courageous heroine as she embarks on a journey too save her island, answering the ocean’s call despite her parents’ reservations. The film features a cast of Pacific Islander descent, including John Tui as Chief Tui, Frankie Adams as Sina, and Rena Owen as Gramma Tala. auli’i Cravalho, who originally voiced Moana in the 2016 animated film and its 2024 sequel, will serve as an executive producer on the adaptation.
Laga’aia expressed her excitement about taking on the role, stating, “I’m really excited to embrace this character because Moana is one of my favorites.” She also highlighted the personal meaning of the project, noting her Samoan heritage: “My grandfather comes from Fa’aala, Palauli, in Savai’i. And my grandmother is from Leulumoega Tuai on the main island of ’Upolu in Samoa. I’m honored to have an opportunity to celebrate Samoa and all Pacific Island peoples, and to represent young girls who look like me.”
Directed by Thomas Kail (Hamilton), the film is produced by Johnson, Beau Flynn, Dany Garcia, and Hiram Garcia, with Lin-Manuel miranda also serving as a producer.Scott Sheldon and Charles Newirth are executive producers alongside Cravalho and Kail.