Disney has released the first full trailer for its live-action remake of Moana, offering fans a first glimpse of Dwayne Johnson stepping into the physical role of Maui after voicing the demigod in the original animated hit.

The trailer, released on Monday, highlights Johnson’s return as the charismatic shapeshifter while showcasing newcomer Catherine Laga'aia as Moana. Johnson shared the footage on Instagram, writing, "The ocean chose her for a reason Experience @Disney's MOANA only in theaters JULY 10."

Familiar moments brought to life

Fans will recognise recreated scenes from the animated film, including Moana’s first encounter with Maui and appearances from the shimmering villain Tamatoa and the fiery entity Te Kā. Although Johnson doesn’t sing in the newly released footage, the moment he tells Moana “You’re welcome” nods to his memorable musical number from the original.

The trailer also teases early interactions between Moana and Maui, set against sweeping ocean vistas and accompanied by music familiar to audiences of the animated classic.

Casting and production

The remake is directed by Thomas Kail, best known for stage and screen work including ‘Hamilton’. Johnson produces alongside Dany Garcia, Beau Flynn, Hiram Garcia and Lin-Manuel Miranda, who also contributed music to the animated original.

The 2016 film, directed by John Musker and Ron Clements, with a script by Jared Bush, grossed more than USD 643 million worldwide and earned two Academy Awards nominations, including Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song for “How Far I’ll Go.”

While Johnson reprises his role, Auliʻi Cravalho, who voiced Moana in the original, stepped aside, saying that it was “vital that casting accurately represents the characters and stories we want to tell.” She returned to voice the character in ‘Moana 2’, but the live-action remake passes the baton to Lagaʻaia.

The cast also includes Rena Owen as Gramma Tala, Frankie Adams as Sina and John Tui as Chief Tui.

A rare return for a Disney star

The remake marks an unusual instance of a Disney animated star reprising the same role in a live-action adaptation. Johnson has said his performance is deeply personal, explaining that his late grandfather inspired his portrayal, “In a way, when I bring Maui to life, I'm doing it in the spirit of my grandfather.”

Disney announced the project in 2023. The film follows a recent wave of live-action remakes from the studio, including ‘Lilo & Stitch’, which grossed over USD 1 billion worldwide and has a sequel set for 2028. Another adaptation on the way is ‘Tangled’, featuring Kathryn Hahn as Mother Gothel.

Release date

The live-action Moana arrives in cinemas on 10 July 2026, just under a decade after the animated film’s debut.