Disney Drops First Trailer for Its Live-Action Moana—and It’s Full of Heart, Humor, and High Seas Magic
Disney just unveiled the first trailer and poster for its live-action Moana, and fans are already riding a wave of excitement. Catherine Lagaʻaia steps into the role of Moana, while Dwayne Johnson returns as everyone’s favorite shapeshifting demigod, Maui. Seeing him back in the leaf skirt? Instant nostalgia.
The trailer gives us a gorgeous first look at Motunui—lush, bright, and alive with culture—along with glimpses of the mighty (and slightly mischievous) Maui, the adorable but fierce Kakamora tribe, and Lagaʻaia belting out the iconic line, “I Am Moana.” Goosebumps: activated.
The cast is stacked with talent from across New Zealand and the Pacific. John Tui plays Chief Tui, Moana’s steady and serious father, while Frankie Adams brings warmth and spark as Moana’s mother, Sina. Rena Owen rounds out the family as the beloved Gramma Tala—always ready with wisdom and a story.
RELATED: You’re Welcome: Disney Drops Trailer For ‘Moana 2’
In this reimagining of the Oscar-nominated animated film, Moana once again answers the Ocean’s call and sails beyond the reef for the first time, teaming up with Maui on a quest to restore her people’s prosperity. The film is directed by Thomas Kail—yes, the Tony and Emmy-winning director of Hamilton—and is produced by Dwayne Johnson, Beau Flynn, Dany Garcia, Hiram Garcia, and Lin-Manuel Miranda, with original Moana voice actor Auliʻi Cravalho serving as an executive producer.
Audiences can return to Motunui when the film hits U.S. theaters on July 10, 2026.
Disney’s latest addition continues a long legacy of standout live-action adventures, dating all the way back to 1950’s Treasure Island. Over the decades, the studio has delivered unforgettable reimaginings—from The Jungle Book and Beauty and the Beast to The Little Mermaid and Aladdin—blending cutting-edge technology with beloved storytelling. With Moana joining the lineup, fans can expect another sweeping, heartfelt, and visually stunning journey.
