Disney recently unveiled a new trailer for the live-action remake of the popular animated film Moana. The newly released trailer offers a first look at Dwayne Johnson as the demigod Maui.
Taking to his Instagram handle, Johnson shared the new trailer. He captioned it, “The ocean chose her for a reason. Experience Disney’s MOANA only in theaters JULY 10.”
Moana trailer out
The trailer shows Johnson reprising his role as the shape-shifting demigod, a character he originally voiced in the animated film Moana. The trailer showcases his transformation into Maui, as he sports his character’s signature tattoos and long hair.
Newcomer Catherine Lagaʻaia plays the titular role of Moana, the young navigator who sets out on a quest to restore peace and order to her island when she is chosen by the ocean.
Fans of the animated movie will be able to recognise the scenes shown in the trailer, such as Moana`s first interaction with Maui, the crab who is obsessed with shiny objects, and the lava and fire creature Te Ka, along with some familiar songs such as I Am Moana (Song of the Ancestors).
About live-action Moana
The live-action version is directed by Thomas Kail, who is known for his work in Hamilton. It is produced by Johnson, Beau Flynn, Dany Garcia, Hiram Garcia and Miranda. It will have original songs by Miranda, Foa`i and Mancina, and an original score composed by Mancina.
The supporting cast includes John Tui as Moana’s father, Chief Tui; Frankie Adams as Moana’s mother, Sina; and Rena Owen as Moana’s Gramma Tala.
The 2016 animated version achieved both critical and commercial acclaim, reportedly earning USD 643 million at the box office worldwide (adjusted for inflation). It received an Academy Award nomination for Best Animated Feature and Miranda was also nominated for Best Original Song for How Far I`ll Go.
The original animated film was directed by John Musker and Ron Clements, with music by Mark Mancina, Lin-Manuel Miranda and Opetaia Foa`i.
The live-action version of Moana is scheduled to release in theatres on 10 July, 2026, on the tenth anniversary of the animed film.
