The first official teaser for Disney’s Moana live-action film, starring Dwayne Johnson as Maui, has been released, exciting fans ahead of its July 10, 2026, theatrical debut. The release offers an early look at the adaptation, prominently featuring Dwayne Johnson Moana live-action in the spotlight alongside a new cast and familiar oceanic adventure.
Highlights from the Newly Released Teaser
The teaser offers a glimpse of Catherine Lagaʻaia as Moana preparing for her voyage, set to the film’s signature opening song, while hinting at the story that will unfold. Audiences also catch their first look at Dwayne Johnson’s Maui, who is depicted diving into the ocean before transforming into a bird. The footage hints at the adventurous journey beyond the reef of Motunui that shapes the heart of Moana’s narrative.
The Cast and Creative Team Bringing Moana to Life
Along with Dwayne Johnson and Catherine Lagaʻaia, the film features John Tui, Frankie Adams, and Rena Owen in key roles. Vision for the adaptation is guided by director Thomas Kail. The screenplay is penned by Jared Bush and Dana Ledoux Miller, aiming to capture the spirit and vibrancy of the original Oscar-nominated animation. Production is managed by a team including Johnson himself, alongside Dany Garcia, Hiram Garcia, and Beau Flynn, illustrating a collaborative effort to faithfully recreate this beloved story for a new audience.
Embracing Polynesian Heritage on the Global Stage
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,
reads the film’s official synopsis.
Playing Maui has been the gift of a lifetime. Growing up as a Samoan — half Samoan and half black — in Samoan culture, Polynesian culture? We’re proud people,
Johnson said in a recent interview. “Proud of our culture. And what Moana has represented is a really awesome global embrace of Polynesian culture, our values and our qualities and our pride and our mana.
What to Expect from Disney’s Moana Live-Action Release
The unveiling of the teaser and the energetic reaction from fans underscore the excitement leading up to the film’s release. With Dwayne Johnson highlighting the pride and cultural meaning behind his portrayal of Maui, the live-action adaptation is positioned to celebrate and share Polynesian heritage with audiences worldwide. As anticipation builds ahead of its 2026 release, this cinematic journey promises to resonate both with fans of the original and those discovering Moana for the first time.
