Moana: Live Action (2026) – A Heartfelt Return to the Ocean

Movies

Release Date & Production

Disney’s Moana will sail into theaters on July 10, 2026, marking the live-action debut of one of its most beloved modern animated classics. Originally slated for June 2025, the release was delayed to make room for Moana 2. This adaptation aims to recapture the magic of the 2016 original while celebrating the Polynesian heritage at its core.

Creative Team

Directed by Thomas Kail (Hamilton), making his feature film debut, the project reunites Jared Bush, writer of the animated Moana and Moana 2, with co-writer Dana Ledoux Miller.
Dwayne Johnson, who returns as Maui, also serves as producer alongside Dany Garcia, Hiram Garcia, and Beau Flynn. Auliʻi Cravalho, the original voice of Moana, steps into a new role as executive producer.

Cast

Catherine Lagaʻaia, a 17-year-old from Sydney with Samoan roots, will embody the adventurous and determined Moana.
Dwayne Johnson reprises his role as the demigod Maui.
John Tui joins as Chief Tui, Moana’s father; Frankie Adams plays her mother Sina; and Rena Owen brings wisdom and warmth as Grandma Tala.
Fans have praised the casting as perfectly matching the animated counterparts.

Filming & Technology

Principal photography began in Atlanta on July 29, 2024, and wrapped in Hawaii on November 22, 2024.
Initially, Disney considered using deepfake technology to overlay Johnson’s face on stunt performer Tanoai Reed to streamline filming. However, this plan was scrapped due to legal risks and ethical concerns surrounding AI in film production.

Cultural Significance & Expectations

Beyond spectacle, Moana: Live Action promises to be a heartfelt tribute to Polynesian culture—its music, traditions, and storytelling. Johnson has described the story as being “in my blood and soul,” underscoring the personal connection shared by many of the cast and crew.
With its mix of breathtaking visuals, beloved songs, and an authentic cultural lens, the film is set to be both a nostalgic voyage for fans and an inspiring journey for new audiences.