Disney Releases New Trailer for Dwayne Johnson's Live-Action 'Moana' Remake

The film features newcomer Catherine Laga`aia as Moana alongside Dwayne Johnson as the demigod Maui.

Mar. 24, 2026 at 11:30am

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Disney has released the new trailer for the live-action remake of the 2016 animated film 'Moana'. The film will star newcomer Catherine Laga`aia as Moana, the wayfinder, and Dwayne Johnson will reprise his role as the mischievous demigod Maui from the original. The trailer features familiar scenes and songs from the animated version, including 'I Am Moana (Song of the Ancestors)'. The live-action 'Moana' is directed by Thomas Kail and is scheduled for release in theaters on July 10, 2026.

Why it matters

The original 'Moana' was a critical and commercial success, earning over $643 million worldwide and receiving an Academy Award nomination for Best Animated Feature. The live-action remake will allow a new generation of audiences to experience the story and characters on the big screen.

The details

The live-action 'Moana' will feature several key scenes and songs from the animated original, including Moana's interactions with the demigod Maui, the crab obsessed with shiny objects, and the lava and fire creature Te Ka. Dwayne Johnson will reprise his role as Maui, while newcomer Catherine Laga`aia will take on the title role of Moana, the wayfinder. The film is directed by Thomas Kail, known for his work on the hit musical 'Hamilton'.

  • The new trailer for the live-action 'Moana' was released on March 24, 2026.
  • The live-action 'Moana' is scheduled to be released in theaters on July 10, 2026.

The players

Dwayne Johnson

An American actor, producer, and former professional wrestler who will reprise his role as the demigod Maui from the animated 'Moana'.

Catherine Laga`aia

A newcomer who will play the title role of Moana, the wayfinder, in the live-action remake.

Thomas Kail

The director of the live-action 'Moana' remake, known for his work on the hit musical 'Hamilton'.

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What they’re saying

“The ocean chose her for a reason Experience @Disney's MOANA only in theaters JULY 10.”

— Dwayne Johnson

What’s next

The live-action 'Moana' is scheduled to be released in theaters on July 10, 2026.

The takeaway

The live-action remake of 'Moana' will allow a new generation of audiences to experience the beloved story and characters on the big screen, building on the critical and commercial success of the original animated film.