‘Moana’ sails into live action mode with latest trailer starring newcomer Catherine Laga’aia

Moana is coming back to the big screen with a live action adaptation of the popular Disney movie.

Australian debutant Catherine Laga’aia will lead the film as the titular Disney princess, with Dwayne Johnson set to reprise his role as Maui from the animated version.

“I’m really excited to embrace this character because Moana is one of my favorites,” 17-year-old Laga’aia shared in a statement.

While reflecting on her ethnic connection with the film’s setting and character, she added, “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.”

Disney released the first and original Moana in 2016, in which the protagonist was voiced by American actress Auli’i Cravalho. The film garnered a nomination for best animated feature at the Oscars in 2017. While a sequel, titled Moana 2, followed in 2024.

The live action Moana, starring Catherine Laga’aia and Dwayne Johnson, will be released on July 10, 2026.