So, Who Is Playing Moana?
This is the big one. The role of Moana will be played by Catherine Laga'aia, a 17-year-old actress from Sydney, Australia. This is her first major film role, and she was chosen after an extensive casting search. Laga'aia has spoken about her excitement
and the honor of representing her Samoan and Pacific Islander heritage, much like the character she's portraying. Her grandfather is from Savaiʻi, Samoa, and her grandmother is from the main island of ʻUpolu, giving her a direct personal connection to the culture celebrated in the film.
Wait, Auliʻi Cravalho Isn't Playing Her?
Correct, and it was her own decision. Auliʻi Cravalho, the original voice of Moana, was 14 when she was cast and is now in her mid-20s. She announced that she would not be reprising the role, stating that it was important to pass the baton to another young actress of Pacific Islander descent who is more age-appropriate for the 16-year-old character. However, Cravalho is not leaving the project entirely. She is serving as an executive producer, helping to guide the new film and mentoring Catherine Laga'aia. She has been very supportive, calling Laga'aia "stunning and beautiful" and expressing her excitement for audiences to see the new portrayal.
Is Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson Back as Maui?
You're welcome! Yes, Dwayne Johnson is back and is one of the driving forces behind the remake. He is reprising his role as the charismatic demigod Maui, but this time in the flesh—long, flowing hair and all. The internet had a field day when the first images of Johnson with a full head of hair were released, a stark contrast to his signature bald look. Johnson is also a producer on the film through his company, Seven Bucks Productions. He has repeatedly stated how deeply personal the story is to him, as it represents his own Polynesian culture and was inspired by his late grandfather, High Chief Peter Maivia.
What About the Music? Is Lin-Manuel Miranda Involved?
The music was a huge part of the original's success, and the creative team knows it. Lin-Manuel Miranda, one of the original songwriters, is returning as a producer for the live-action film. Mark Mancina, who composed the original's score, is also back. While it's not yet clear how many new songs will be featured, Miranda has already written at least one new track for the film, titled "Along The Way." This ensures that the musical spirit of the original, which blended traditional Oceanic sounds with Broadway-style showstoppers, will remain a central part of the new movie.
Is It Going to Be the Exact Same Story?
The film is expected to follow the same core story as the 2016 animated classic: a young woman chosen by the ocean sails out on a dangerous mission to find the demigod Maui and save her people. However, as with most live-action remakes, there will likely be some expansions and new details. The screenplay was penned by Jared Bush, who also wrote the original, ensuring continuity. The director is Thomas Kail, best known for his work on the Broadway hit Hamilton, so his expertise with musical storytelling will be a major asset. The production has heavily emphasized cultural authenticity, involving a wide array of artists and consultants from across the Pacific Islands to ensure the traditions are represented respectfully.
When Does It Actually Come Out?
Mark your calendars for next summer. The live-action Moana is scheduled to be released in theaters on July 10, 2026. The date was pushed back a year from its original 2025 slot to create more space between it and the animated sequel, Moana 2, which was released in late 2024. This strategic move by Disney aims to let each film have its own moment in the spotlight without causing audience confusion or fatigue.
