Disney is bringing back the story of Moana in live-action, and one of the biggest changes is in the cast. Catherine Lagaʻaia, a newcomer from Australia, has been cast in the title role. Meanwhile, Dwayne Johnson returns as the demigod Maui, reprising his voice role from the animated version.
For fans, this means something both familiar and new. The ocean, the island of Motunui and many elements of the original story remain, while seeing them brought to life with real people and live-action sets changes how the story feels. You might recognise the beats — but expect some adjustments.
If you enjoyed the 2016 animated film, this remake can feel like seeing an old friend in a new outfit. And if you’re unsure whether you’ll like it, you’re not alone — it’s natural to wonder what’s changed and why.
Why Representation and Casting Matter
Catherine Lagaʻaia’s casting is significant beyond the point of star power. She has Samoan heritage and has spoken about respecting Pacific Island cultures. She said: “I’m honoured to have an opportunity to celebrate Samoa and all Pacific Island peoples, and to represent young girls who look like me.”
From the original Moana to now, one complaint has been that big-studio films often overlook authentic representation. In this case, Disney appears to be making a point of including actors with cultural ties to the story’s setting, which can help the remake feel more grounded.
At the same time, representation alone doesn’t guarantee the story will work for every viewer. Some fans will compare the remake to the original animated version, and whether you feel it succeeds will depend on how much you value fidelity versus reinterpretation.
What to Expect from the Story and Production
The remake keeps the broad strokes of the original: a young woman, the daughter of a chief, sets out across the sea to restore her people’s island. According to Entertainment Weekly the story “follows the titular heroine … as she sets sail in search of a missing demigod to help save her island home.”
Behind the scenes, the film is directed by Thomas Kail, who is known for his work on Broadway’s Hamilton. That means the remake may lean more into musical and visual spectacle than the original. The first trailer shows large-scale ocean shots, island scenes, and some recognisable musical moments.
If you’re someone who loved the original film’s soundtrack or the visuals in the animated version, you’ll likely have a good reference point. If you’re more of a live-action purist, the blend of CGI, real locations and music will be a point of interest.
What’s Changing and What Might Stay the Same
While the story aligns with the original, some elements are fresh. The trailer reveals Catherine Lagaʻaia singing “How Far I’ll Go” and interacting with the ocean for the first time in live action. The music composer from the original, Mark Mancina, is returning for the remake.
Many sequences look familiar: the island, the sea voyage, Maui’s entrance — which means Disney is embracing nostalgia. But there are likely new visual choices, perhaps different pacing or additional scenes. If you enjoyed the original, you’ll recognise many scenes; if you’re worried it might feel too similar, you aren’t alone.
The key is this: you’re getting something that blends old and new. The question will be how comfortable you are with that blend. If you’re open to seeing a story you love retold with new visuals and real actors, you might enjoy what’s to come.
When and Where You Can Watch It
The U.S. release date for the movie is set for July 10, 2026. That gives family-movie fans, fans of the original and general audiences time to anticipate it.
Between now and then, the first teaser is already out, giving glimpses of what to expect. If you’re curious, watching the trailer gives you an early sense of tone, style and how different it looks from the animated version.
If your concern is whether it will feel “just like the original” or “completely different,” you’re right to wonder. The date gives you time to watch trailers, read reactions and decide whether you’ll see it in theaters or wait for streaming. Either way, you’ll have options.
What If You Loved the Original but Are Wary of the Remake
It’s okay to feel a bit conflicted. If you were attached to the 2016 animated film, you may wonder: will it live up to what I remember? Some commentators already say that parts of the trailer feel “nearly shot-for-shot” like the original.
If you’re worried it will change too much, remember that one of the producers said the remake would “answer the Ocean’s call” and remain true to the spirit of the original while bringing new life to it.
If you’re the kind of viewer who can enjoy both versions for different reasons, the remake offers that chance. If you prefer originals stay untouched, you may choose to stream or skip until you’ve heard more. There’s nothing wrong with either choice.
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