Disney has officially given fans their first glimpse of the highly anticipated live-action Moana with the release of the teaser trailer, and it’s already causing a splash online. The short preview introduces Catherine Laga‘aia as the spirited wayfinder Moana and confirms that Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson will return as the charismatic, shape-shifting demigod Maui.
In just a few moments, the teaser sets the stage for an epic adventure. Moana is seen exploring the lush island of Motunui and its traditions, and we even get a glimpse of Johnson’s Maui at one point, as his godly character transforms from an insect. The first glimpses of the Kakamora — the small, armored coconut pirates from the original animated film — also make an appearance. Finally, at the end of the trailer, Laga‘aia singer her iconic powerful line, “I Am Moana.”
Laga‘aia, 17, a rising star of Samoan descent, shared her excitement about stepping into this iconic role. “I’m really excited to embrace this character because Moana is one of my favorites,” she said in a statement. “My grandfather comes from Fa‘aala, Palauli, in Savai‘i. And my grandmother is from Leulumoega Tuai on the main island of ‘Upolu in Samoa. I’m honored to have an opportunity to celebrate Samoa and all Pacific Island peoples, and to represent young girls who look like me.”
The teaser also offers quick glimpses of Moana’s family. John Tui appears as her father, Chief Tui, Frankie Adams as her playful and strong-willed mother, Sina, and Rena Owen as the wise and beloved Gramma Tala.
Directed by Thomas Kail and co-written by Jared Bush alongside Dana Ledoux Miller, the film reunites original composer Mark Mancina, while Lin-Manuel Miranda produces.
Moana follows the titular character as she answers the call of the ocean, venturing beyond the reef of her island, Motunui, to find the legendary demigod Maui and restore her people and homeland to its former glory. The teaser features the beloved song “How Far I’ll Go,” originally composed by Miranda, as well as Maui’s playful anthem, “You’re Welcome,” giving fans a taste of the music that made the animated version so iconic.
The original Moana, released in 2016, earned $643 million worldwide and quickly became one of Disney’s biggest original animated hits of the century, alongside Frozen and Encanto.
The live-action Moana is set to hit theaters July 10, 2026, marking just under a decade since the original animated release.
