The live-action adaptation of Moana, set to hit theaters on July 10, 2026, reimagines the beloved 2016 animated classic in vivid real-world detail. Directed by Thomas Kail, this version stays faithful to the original story—a brave Polynesian teenager sets sail to restore the heart of the goddess Te Fiti and save her island home—but enriches it with expanded backstories and deeper cultural context.
At the core of the film is Moana herself, now portrayed by newcomer Catherine Lagaʻaia in her feature debut. She brings an authentic Pacific Island spirit and radiant energy to the role, supported by her own Samoan heritage. As she expressed, “I’m honored to celebrate Samoa and all Pacific Island peoples,” capturing the essence of the character. Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson reprises his voice—and for the first time, his physical portrayal—as the shapeshifting demigod Maui, blending CGI with live-action performance.
Filming took place between July and November 2024 across striking locations in both Atlanta and Hawaii, lending the film a powerful sense of place. The lush landscapes, ocean vistas, and cultural touches are anchored by careful collaboration with Polynesian advisors, ensuring respectful and vibrant representation of traditions, tattoos, and navigation lore. Notably, the production initially explored using AI deepfake technology to map The Rock’s face onto a body double for certain scenes, but later abandoned the idea due to legal and ethical concerns.
Musically, the film reunites the original creative team, with Lin‑Manuel Miranda returning to contribute new material, alongside composer Mark Mancina. Fans can expect the iconic songs such as “How Far I’ll Go” and “You’re Welcome” to return, enriched with fresh arrangements and additional Polynesian-language lyrics.
This adaptation is more than a remake—it stands as a cultural celebration and cinematic milestone. Auliʻi Cravalho, the original voice of Moana and now an executive producer, praised Lagaʻaia for embodying Moana’s courage and for representing the strength of Pacific Islander women. The film’s real-world visuals, musical depth, and heartfelt performances aim to bring both longtime fans and new audiences on a majestic voyage across the seas—a voyage rooted in heritage, identity, and heart.
