The long-awaited live-action adaptation of the animation “Moana” gained its first official images with the release of a teaser trailer. The video features actress Catherine Laga’aia in the role of the courageous navigator and confirms the return of
The initial trailer transports audiences to the vibrant island of Motunui, recreating the iconic call of the ocean that drives the protagonist’s journey. The preview highlights the visual fidelity to the animation, while promising new depth to the story of a young woman who defies traditions to save her people. The Disney initiative seeks to modernize the narrative, which was nominated for Oscar, to a new format, maintaining the essence that captivated millions of viewers.
One of the pillars of the new film is representation, with the choice of a cast mostly of Polynesian descent to guarantee the cultural authenticity of the plot. The executive production features Auliʻi Cravalho, the original voice of Moana in the animation, who now works behind the scenes to guide the new adaptation.
Cast and Polynesian representation
The choice for the main role fell on 17-year-old Catherine Laga’aia. With Samoan descent, the actress has a direct connection with the character’s roots, as her family has origins in villages in Upolu and Savai’i, in Samoa. The actress publicly expressed her honor in representing young people with similar heritage to hers.
Dwayne Johnson, who also has Samoan ancestry, not only returns as Maui, but takes on a more prominent role as one of the film’s producers. Esta will be his third major collaboration with the Disney universe, solidifying his connection with the character who has become an audience favorite.
The supporting cast reinforces the commitment to authenticity. John Tui, born in Nova Zelândia, will play Chefe Tui, father of Moana. Frankie Adams, of Samoan-New Zealand descent, will be Sina, the protagonist’s mother, while the experienced Rena Owen, also from Nova Zelândia, will give life to the wise Vovó Tala.
The careful selection of actors aims to deepen immersion in the culture of Pacífico, an element that was fundamental to the success of the original animation. The production team worked with cultural consultants to ensure that traditions, myths and customs were portrayed with respect and accuracy.
Production details and creative team
Behind the scenes, Thomas Kail’s direction marks his debut in a narrative feature film, bringing the same energy and vision that earned him an Tony award for the musical “Hamilton.” The script was co-written by Jared Bush, one of the screenwriters of the original animation, and Dana Ledoux Miller, a screenwriter of Samoan origin, ensuring a balance between fidelity to the known story and the introduction of new cultural perspectives.
The production team is led by Dwayne Johnson, Dany Garcia, Hiram Garcia and Beau Flynn. The musical part, one of the franchise’s highlights, also receives special attention. Lin-Manuel Miranda, composer of the 2016 film’s iconic songs, returns not only as producer, but also to develop new music for the adaptation. Mark Mancina, responsible for the animation’s soundtrack and “Moana 2”, is also confirmed in the project, ensuring the musical cohesion of the universe. Filming took place in strategic locations in Havaí and in studios in Atlanta.
First images revealed in the teaser
The approximately one-minute teaser opens with the familiar strains of the song “How Far I’ll Go” (“Saber Quem Sou”, in the Brazilian version), immediately connecting fans to the emotional journey of Moana. The scenes showcase the lush beauty of Motunui, with its beaches and vegetation recreated with stunning realism.
One of the most anticipated moments, the first meeting between Moana and Maui, is briefly presented, highlighting the chemistry between Laga’aia and Johnson. The video also offers glimpses of fantastic elements, such as the Kakamora tribe and the ocean itself, which acts as a living character, using visual effects that mix fantasy and reality.
Initial promotional material, including the official poster, focuses on the protagonist duo sailing their canoe, reinforcing the central theme of adventure and exploration. The strategy was to present the tone of the film without revealing crucial plot points, arousing the audience’s curiosity.
New compositions and soundtrack
Music has always been a central element in the “Moana” universe, and the live-action adaptation promises to expand that legacy. Lin-Manuel Miranda, who was not involved in the musical creation of “Moana 2” due to scheduling conflicts, returns in full force to compose new songs exclusively for this film. Espera classics like “You’re Welcome” (“From Nada”) are reinterpreted with new arrangements.
The soundtrack will maintain the signature fusion of traditional Polynesian rhythms with contemporary pop, a formula that has garnered worldwide acclaim. Mark Mancina’s work on the instrumental score will seek to integrate authentic sounds, such as traditional drums and the sound of waves, recorded on location to increase the feeling of immersion and cultural authenticity.
Journey of adaptation to the screen
Officially announced in April 2023 during a meeting of Disney shareholders, the live-action “Moana” project was initially scheduled for 2025.
Launch strategy and expectations
Disney is preparing a robust global marketing campaign, targeting not only families but also fans of the original animation, which grossed more than $643 million at the global box office. The remake is part of the studio’s strategy of adapting its animated classics, following other major releases.
Distribution will be carried out by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures, with a strong focus on international markets where the franchise is very popular. The film will also be released in IMAX format, promising to expand the visual experience of Pacífico’s maritime adventure and stunning scenery.
Cultural fidelity and narrative adjustments
A major focus of the production was ensuring accurate and respectful cultural representation. Para this, the development team had the collaboration of a consultancy made up of experts from Polynesian communities, who guided the recreation of dances, myths and traditions. Important Detalhes, such as Maui’s tattoos, which tell the story of his exploits, and the ancient techniques of navigation by stars, were deepened based on historical research to give greater veracity to the narrative. The adaptation, estimated to last 110 minutes, opted for a more realistic approach in certain aspects, which led to the decision not to include the character Heihei, the comical rooster voiced by Alan Tudyk in the animation, to keep the tone of Moana’s journey of self-discovery more centered.