Disney Unveils New Trailer and Poster for Live-Action “Moana” Ahead of July 2026 Cinema Release

Disney has unveiled an all-new trailer and poster for its highly anticipated live-action reimagining of “Moana.” The film, which sails exclusively into cinemas on 10 July 2026, brings fresh energy to the beloved Oscar®-nominated animated adventure.

The reimagined epic stars Catherine Laga’aia as the fearless wayfinder Moana, alongside Dwayne Johnson, who reprises his iconic role as the charismatic demigod Maui.

Behind the Scenes: “Artistry of Moana” Featurette

In addition to the trailer and poster, viewers can explore the craftsmanship behind the production through the newly released “Artistry of Moana” featurette. The behind-the-scenes look offers commentary from key creatives and cast, including:

Dwayne Johnson
Catherine Laga’aia
Director Thomas Kail
Costume Designer Liz McGregor
Choreographer Tiana Nonosina Liufau

The featurette provides insight into the scale, artistry and cultural authenticity shaping the film’s visual and musical world.

A Celebrated Cast and Creative Team

Joining Laga’aia and Johnson is a strong supporting cast:

John Tui as Chief Tui, Moana’s steadfast father
Frankie Adams as Sina, Moana’s spirited and strong-willed mother
Rena Owen as the revered Gramma Tala

The film is directed by Emmy® and Tony Award® winner Thomas Kail (“Hamilton”). Production is led by Dwayne Johnson, Dany Garcia, Beau Flynn, Hiram Garcia and Lin-Manuel Miranda, with executive producers including Kail, Scott Sheldon, Charles Newirth and Auli’i Cravalho, who voiced Moana in the original animated films.

“Moana” features original songs by Lin-Manuel Miranda, Opetaia Foa’i and Mark Mancina, with an original score composed by Mancina. Audiences can expect a cinematic experience defined by sweeping visuals, dynamic choreography and powerful music.

Disney’s Live-Action Legacy Continues

Disney’s live-action storytelling heritage stretches back to 1950’s “Treasure Island.” Over the decades, the studio has delivered a diverse slate of theatrical and streaming successes, from swashbuckling adventures like “Pirates of the Caribbean” to live-action reimaginings including “The Little Mermaid,” “Beauty and the Beast,” “The Lion King,” “Aladdin,” and “Lilo & Stitch.”

The 2026 release of “Moana” continues this legacy, bringing together globally recognised talent and cutting-edge filmmaking to reintroduce a modern Disney heroine to a new generation.

Coming to South African Cinemas in July 2026

South African audiences can experience the adventure, music and spectacle of “Moana” exclusively in cinemas from 10 July 2026. With its blend of cultural storytelling, star power and cinematic scale, the film is set to be one of the year’s major theatrical releases.

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