Teaser Trailer For Disney's Live Action MOANA Showcases Catherine Laga‘aia’s Big Debut
Disney has finally dropped the first trailer for the live action remake of Moana, and it gives fans a fresh look at the ocean crossing adventure that captured so many hearts back in 2016.
This new take introduces audiences to newcomer Catherine Laga‘aia, who steps into the role of Moana, while Dwayne Johnson returns as Maui, bringing the demigod back to life in a whole new way.
The trailer sets the tone for a familiar but expanded journey. Disney describes the upcoming film as follows:
”In Disney’s live-action adaptation of the beloved Oscar®-nominated animated adventure, Moana (Catherine Lagaʻaia) 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.”
For Laga‘aia, the project carries a personal connection that makes her casting feel special. She shared, “I’m really excited to embrace this character because Moana is one of my favorites.
“My grandfather comes from Fa‘aala, Palauli, in Savai‘i. And my grandmother is from Leulumoega Tuai on the main island of ‘Upolu in Samoa. I’m honored to have an opportunity to celebrate Samoa and all Pacific Island peoples, and to represent young girls who look like me.”
The film’s cast also includes John Tui as Chief Tui, Frankie Adams as Sina and Rena Owen as Gramma Tala, rounding out a strong ensemble to bring Motunui’s community to life.
The trailer provides a first look at the live-action adventure, introducing audiences to the majestic island and vibrant people of Motunui; the shapeshifting demigod Maui; the intimidating yet adorable tribe of Kakamora; and Lagaʻaia as wayfinder Moana, who sings the powerful line “I Am Moana.”
The original Moana was directed by John Musker and Ron Clements, with Jared Bush writing and music from Mark Mancina, Lin Manuel Miranda and Opetaia Foaʻi.
The live action version brings Bush back as co-writer with Dana Ledoux Miller, and Thomas Kail steps in as director. Johnson produces the film alongside Dany Garcia, Hiram Garcia and Beau Flynn. Mancina returns to score and Manuel Miranda is on board as a producer.
The mvoie is set to hit theaters on July 10, 2026.