Disney has just released the first official trailer for its live-action version of Moana, and audiences are finally getting their first look at newcomer Catherine Laga’aia playing the popular wayfinder in the film along with returning star Dwayne Johnson. Amazing visuals and impactful vocals are already making waves on social media.
Disney’s Moana Live-Action Trailer Released: Catherine Laga’aia Stars, Dwayne Johnson Returns as Maui
Disney has finally released the first trailer for its live-action Moana remake, with a breathtaking view of the reimagined Motunui island. The teaser, which features Catherine Lagaaia in the lead role as the titular character, was released on November 17, 2025, and it is her first appearance on film in this highly-anticipated adaptation.
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The trailer gives us a glimpse at the amazing singing skills of Laga’aia who sings the powerful song titled “I Am Moana,” which has already won the hearts of people. Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson plays his iconic character Maui, the shapeshifting trickster demigod who assists Moana on her ocean journey.
Impressive Star Cast Brings Motunui to Life
The action film adaptation has an impressive cast. John Tui plays Chief Tui, the protective father of Moana, and Frankie Adams as Sina, the strong-willed mother of Moana. Rena Owen plays the popular role of Gramma Tala, the wise grandmother of Moana. It is directed by Emmy and Tony Award winner Thomas Kail, known for his work on Hamilton, and Lin-Manuel Miranda returns as producer, having created the wildly popular music for the original film.
Release Date and Fan Response
The live-action Moana by Disney is due in cinemas on July 10, 2026, on the 10th anniversary of the original animated film. You could say it is the shortest gap between a Disney animated film and a live-action remake with a film coming a decade after the 2016 original. The teaser has received both positive and negative responses, with fans applauding the breathtaking visuals and Laga’aia’s vocals. The question arises: why remake a classic from so recently?
Moana | Official Teaser
The new adventure features vibrant cinematography and familiar faces, such as the cute Kakamora tribe.
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