moana

Some posts may contain affiliate links which means our team could earn money if you purchase products from our site.

Disney’s Ocean Adventure Comes to Life! First Trailer and Poster for Live-Action Moana Debut

The wait is finally over! Disney has released the thrilling first trailer and poster for its highly anticipated live-action reimagining of the beloved animated adventure, “Moana.” The footage offers a stunning first look at the cinematic journey, confirming the return of a fan-favorite star and introducing the talented newcomer set to become the next Wayfinder.

Catherine Lagaʻaia steps into the lead role as the courageous Moana, sailing alongside Dwayne Johnson, who reprises his role as the charismatic, trickster demigod Maui.

Related-Disney Casts Live-Action Moana as Filming Begins this Summer

moana

A First Glimpse of Motunui

The trailer immediately immerses audiences back into the world of Motunui, showcasing the majestic island and its vibrant people in striking live-action detail. Fans got their first look at the mischievous, shapeshifting Maui, the intimidating yet adorable tribe of Kakamora, and, most powerfully, a glimpse of Lagaʻaia as Moana, delivering the iconic and powerful line, “I Am Moana.”

moana

In this new cinematic telling of the Oscar®-nominated adventure, Moana answers the Ocean’s call, journeying for the first time beyond the protective reef of her home island alongside the infamous demigod Maui to restore prosperity to her people.

Related-Moana Directors Not Involved With Disney’s Live-Action Remake

moana
moana

Authentic Pacific Casting

The film boasts a talented cast of actors from across the Pacific, lending authenticity and heart to the project:

  • Catherine LagaĘ»aia as Moana
  • Dwayne Johnson as the demigod Maui
  • Auckland, New Zealand, native John Tui as Moana’s no-nonsense father, Chief Tui.
  • Samoan-New Zealander Frankie Adams as Moana’s playful and strong-willed mother, Sina.
  • Rena Owen, from Bay of Islands, New Zealand, as the revered village elder, Gramma Tala.
moana

Creative Team Behind the Voyage

Bringing this modern classic to life is a powerhouse team of creatives. The film is directed by Emmy® and Tony Award® winner Thomas Kail (Hamilton), known for his dynamic stage and screen work.

The producing team features Dwayne Johnson, Beau Flynn, Dany Garcia, Hiram Garcia, and a key figure from the original: Lin-Manuel Miranda, who wrote the original songs. Executive producers include Thomas Kail, Scott Sheldon, and Charles Newirth, alongside Auliʻi Cravalho, who voiced Moana in the original animated feature and its sequel, Moana 2.

Audiences can experience the brilliant sights, sounds, and songs of Disney’s live-action “Moana” when it sails into U.S. theaters on July 10, 2026.

YouTube player

subscribe

Get all the best Disney News
and
more, straight to your inbox!

We don't spam. Read our privacy policy for more info.


For the BEST in Disney, Universal, Dollywood, and SeaWorld Theme Park News, Entertainment, Merchandise & More follow us on, Facebook, Instagram, and Youtube. Don't forget to check out the Chip and Company Radio Network too!


D2Travel

Let our friends at Destinations to Travel help you book your next Disney Vacation. They are the preferred Travel Agency of Chip and Company and Disney Addicts, and who we use ourselves.

Click Here for your FREE No Obligation Quote.

YouTube player