New Trailer for Disney’s Live-Action MOANA Teases a Familiar but Fun Adventure
Disney just released a fresh trailer for it’s live-action Moana, and it’s giving fans a pretty clear idea of what this remake is aiming for.
After a rocky moment with Snow White, the studio found its footing again with Lilo & Stitch, and now it looks like Moana is stepping into theaters with a lot more confidence and a whole wave of fan support behind it.
This trailer makes one thing clear: Disney isn’t trying to reinvent Moana. It’s leaning into what already works and bringing it into a new format with modern visuals and a fresh cast. If you loved the original, there’s a really good chance this version will feel like a familiar and fun return to the ocean.
From what the trailer shows, Disney isn’t straying far from what made the original such a hit. In fact, this looks very close to a shot-for-shot recreation of the animated movie. It’s a safe move, but honestly, it’s probably the right one given how beloved the original film is.
This version of Moana introduces Catherine Lagaʻaia in the title role, stepping into the story of a young wayfinder answering the call of the ocean. The official synopsis sums it up perfectly:
“In Moana, Disney’s live action reimagining of the beloved animated adventure, Moana answers the Ocean’s call and, for the first time, voyages beyond the reef of her island of Motunui with the infamous demigod Maui (Dwayne Johnson) on an unforgettable journey to restore prosperity to her people.”
The supporting cast is stacked with strong talent, including John Tui as Chief Tui, Frankie Adams as Sina, and Rena Owen as Gramma Tala. There’s also a cool full-circle moment with Auli’i Cravalho, the original voice of Moana, serving as an executive producer on the project.
Music is, of course, a huge part of Moana, and that isn’t changing. The film features original songs from Lin-Manuel Miranda, Opetaia Foaʻi, and Mark Mancina, with Mancina also handling the score.
There’s already a ton of goodwill baked into this project. The original animated film remains a fan favorite, and Moana 2 turned into a massive hit in 2024 after shifting from a Disney+ series into a theatrical release. That momentum definitely helps this remake feel less like a gamble and more like a continuation of something audiences already love.
Disney also released a featurette titled “Artistry of Moana,” giving fans a glimpse at how the film is being crafted. It highlights director Thomas Kail, known for Hamilton, along with stars Catherine Lagaʻaia and Dwyane Johnson, plus key creative voices like the costume designer and choreographer.
The focus seems to be on honoring the cultural roots and visual identity that made the animated film stand out in the first place.
Moana sails into theaters on July 10.
