. Get ready to set sail with Disney’s spectacular live-action adaptation of “Moana,” arriving in theaters on July 10, 2026. Production company disney has launched its teaser on 16 Nov 2025 about telling its cast, crews and other information.This breathtaking reimagining brings to life the beloved tale of Moana, played by newcomer Catherine Laga’aia, as she answers the ocean’s call and embarks on an unforgettable journey beyond her island’s reef alongside the demigod Maui, portrayed by Dwayne Johnson.
Directed by Emmy and Tony Award winner Thomas Kail, and produced by a powerhouse team including Johnson and Lin-Manuel Miranda, this movie promises stunning visuals, heartfelt songs, and an epic adventure to restore prosperity to its people.
Audiences can look forward to experiencing the magic, music, and inspiring spirit of this cherished story like never before on the big screen.
This much-anticipated new movie is a live-action adaptation of Disney’s 2016 animated hit. It stars Catherine Laga’aia in her film debut as Moana, with Dwayne Johnson reprising his role as the demigod Maui.
in this post we are TALKING:
ABOUT MOVIE
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GENRE- Musical, Adventure, Fantasy, Family, Comedy
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DIRECTOR- Thomas Kail
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CAST-
- Catherine Laga’aia stars as Moana
- Dwayne Johnson as Maui
- John Tui as Chief Tui
- Frankie Adams as Sina
- Rena Owen as Gramma Tala
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RELEASE DATE –
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U.S. theaters and IMAX on July 10, 2026 (coinciding with the 10th anniversary of the original film)
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PRODUCTION COMPANY-
- Flynn Picture Company
- Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures.
- Seven Bucks Productions
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FILMING LOCATION
- Atlanta
- Georgia
- Hawaii
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BUDGET- Not officially disclosed, but high-budget typical of Disney live-action remakes
difference between live-action and original animated Moana
.The live-action remake uses heavy CGI to recreate the vibrant ocean, fantastical creatures, and island settings, making it look almost like a detailed animated film rather than traditional live-action. This CGI-heavy approach has drawn mixed reactions, with some fans feeling it loses the charm of the animated original by appearing overly artificial.There are changes in Moana’s appearance, notably the casting of Catherine Laga’aia, whose portrayal includes differences like straighter hair compared to the character’s curly hair in the animation.
.This has sparked criticism over authenticity and cultural representation.Although the storyline largely follows the same plot of Moana answering the ocean’s call and teaming up with Maui, rumors suggest the live-action film might explore Moana’s personal growth and her connection with the ocean and her ancestors in deeper ways.
Watch movie teaser
PLOT SUMMARY
The live-action “Moana” (2026) follows the story of Moana, the adventurous daughter of the chief of the island Motunui. Prompted by a summons from the ocean, she leaves her home for the first time and sets out beyond the island’s protective reef. Accompanied by Maui, a shape-shifting demigod, Moana embarks on a perilous voyage to restore the well-being and balance of her community and the natural world.
Together, they face challenges that test their strength, courage, and connection to their culture and ancestors.This adaptation stays faithful to the core plot of the original animated film but presents it with live-action visuals and deeper cultural storytelling elements, accentuated with music and spectacular oceanic visuals. The narrative emphasizes themes of bravery, identity, and harmony with nature
.FACTS
.It is a musical adventure film and the third installment in the Moana franchise.
.The story follows Moana as she answers the ocean’s call and voyages beyond the barrier reef of her home island Motunui with Maui to restore prosperity to her people.
.The movie was filmed in Atlanta and Hawaii between July and November 2024.
.It is set to be released in U.S. theaters and IMAX on July 10, 2026, coinciding with the 10th anniversary of the original film.
.Other cast members include John Tui as Chief Tui (Moana’s father), Frankie Adams as Sina (Moana’s mother), and Rena Owen as Gramma Tala (Moana’s grandmother).
.The film’s teaser trailer was released in November 2025 and received mixed reactions from fans.Lin-Manuel Miranda, who contributed music to the original, is a producer on this live-action remake.
.Production companies involved are Flynn Picture Company and Seven Bucks Productions.
.The film aims to retain the spirit and adventure of the animated original while presenting it in live-action form.
