Disney has officially opened the door to its live-action Moana remake, releasing a teaser that puts the spotlight on Catherine Laga'aia as the future chieftess of Motunui and Dwayne Johnson bringing Maui to life outside the recording booth for the first time.
The preview, shared on Monday, November 17, marks the first complete look at Laga'aia stepping into a role that has become one of Disney’s most recognizable in the past decade, per Deadline.
It also confirms Johnson’s on-screen transformation into the demigod he initially voiced in the 2016 animated film and its 2024 sequel.
Johnson posted the teaser to his Instagram account and has previously explained just how intensive Maui’s appearance is to recreate, saying the suit he wears requires “a couple of hours every day” to put on.
The film reunites several prominent figures connected to the original franchise. Auli‘i Cravalho—who voiced Moana in both animated features—is part of the executive producing team. Lin-Manuel Miranda, who helped shape the original soundtrack that defined the first movie, joins as a producer. Thomas Kail, known for directing the stage production of Hamilton, directs the live-action adaptation.
Rounding out the main cast are John Tui as Chief Tui, Frankie Adams as Sina, and Rena Owen as Gramma Tala. Each actor takes on a character central to Moana’s story: her protective father, her warm but strong-willed mother, and the grandmother who encourages her connection to the ocean.
Fans already caught an early hint of Johnson’s physical transformation when photos from the Hawaiʻi set surfaced last year, showing him built out for the role and covered in Maui’s signature markings.
The footage briefly highlights the early stages of Moana’s journey, including her attraction to the ocean and the beginnings of the voyage that propels her beyond the boundaries of her island.
Disney has confirmed the movie follows the foundational storyline: Moana’s first major expedition, her unpredictable partnership with Maui, and the mission to restore balance to her homeland.
With Disney continuing its streak of retelling animated classics in live action—including recent versions of Snow White and Lilo & Stitch—Moana stands out as one of the studio’s most anticipated releases. The film is scheduled to arrive in theaters on July 10, 2026.
