Liputan6.com, Jakarta The first trailer for the live-action Moana film was officially released on November 17, 2025, bringing back the epic adventure of the beloved animated story.
The one-minute trailer features newcomer Catherine Laga'aia as Moana, passionately singing iconic songs like "I Am Moana" and "How Far I'll Go."
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The trailer also gives viewers a glimpse of Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, who reprises his role as Maui.
Although mostly seen from behind or in his shapeshifting form, Johnson's presence is enough to generate excitement.
The visuals show the beauty of Motunui Island, dramatic ocean waves, and a glimpse of the Kakamora.
First Trailer for Moana Live-Action Captivates with Visuals and Sound
The first trailer for the live-action Moana film captivates with its captivating visuals.
The lush, lush scenery of Motunui Island, along with the dramatic waves, are beautifully rendered.
Small details like the appearance of the Kakamora, the coconut pirates, also add to the appeal.
Catherine Laga'aia, a 17-year-old actress, showcases her immense potential as Moana.
Her melodious voice while singing "I Am Moana" and "How Far I'll Go" brings the character to life.
Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson's role as Maui is also a major highlight.
Although his appearance remains mysterious and is often only seen from behind, Johnson's charisma shines through.
His ability to transform into a beetle and an eagle is also briefly shown.
Moana Live-Action Release Schedule
The live-action Moana film is scheduled to hit theaters in the United States on July 10, 2026.
This release date holds special significance as it coincides with the 10th anniversary of the Moana franchise since the original film's release.
The film was originally slated for an earlier release on June 27, 2025.
However, the release date was later postponed for a full year.
This delay followed the official announcement regarding the production of Moana 2.
Moana Live-Action Star Cast
The lead role of Moana is entrusted to Catherine Laga'aia, a 17-year-old up-and-coming actress from Sydney, Australia.
Laga'aia expressed her pride in representing her Samoan heritage and the entire Pacific Island community through this role.
Dwayne Johnson returns as Maui, the charismatic demigod.
Johnson previously voiced Maui in the animated film and is now also serving as one of the producers of the live-action Moana.
John Tui from Auckland, New Zealand, will play Chief Tui, Moana's father.
Frankie Adams, a Samoan-New Zealand actress, will play Sina, Moana's mother.
Meanwhile, Rena Owen from the Bay of Islands, New Zealand, will bring to life the character of Gramma Tala, Moana's wise grandmother.
Alan Tudyk, who previously voiced Heihei, Moana's adorable pet chicken, will not return.
The role of Heihei in the live-action Moana will be filled by another actress whose name has not yet been announced.
The Production Team Behind the Scenes of Moana Live Action
The live-action Moana project is directed by Thomas Kail, an Emmy and Tony Award winner widely known for his work on Hamilton, both on Broadway and on Disney+.
Kail's experience working on musicals and stage plays is expected to bring a unique touch to this adaptation.
The screenplay was written by Jared Bush, who also wrote the 2016 animated film Moana.
He collaborated with Dana Ledoux Miller, a writer of Samoan descent, to ensure depth and authenticity.
This collaboration promises a powerful and relevant narrative.
Dwayne Johnson not only stars but also serves as one of the film's producers, alongside Beau Flynn, Dany Garcia, and Hiram Garcia.
Lin-Manuel Miranda, the brilliant composer behind the original film's score, also returns as a producer.
Auli'i Cravalho, the voice of Moana in the animated film, serves as an executive producer alongside Thomas Kail, Scott Sheldon, and Charles Newirth.
The music for Moana live action will be composed by Mark Mancina.
Moana Live-Action Adaptation Plot and Expectations
The live-action Moana film is expected to largely adhere to the original storyline of the 2016 animated film.
The official synopsis states that Moana will answer the call of the Ocean and sail beyond her island reef.
Her goal is to, alongside Maui, restore prosperity to his threatened people.
Dwayne Johnson has promised that the new adaptation will feature all the characters, songs, and visuals fans have come to love.
This includes the presence of the wise Gramma Tala, the captivating music, the energetic dancing, and fantasy elements like Te Fiti, the pig Pua, and the picturesque village.
The production engaged a cultural consultant to ensure authenticity and respect for the culture depicted in the live-action Moana.
While the plot will be similar, co-writer Dana Ledoux Miller stated that the 2026 version will add a new layer to the original story.