The long-awaited live-action adaptation of the acclaimed animated film Moana already has an image and, most importantly, a voice. disney released the first teaser trailer of the film, focusing on its new protagonist, Catherine Lagaʻaia, who plays the boss’s intrepid daughter.
The video, released this Monday, offers an exciting glimpse of what’s to come. In it, Lagaʻaia, 18 years old and of Australian-Samoan origin, powerfully interprets the song “I Am Moana (Song of the Ancestors)“.
The trailer recreates key scenes from the original 2016 film, including Moana’s playful relationship with the ocean during her childhood and her first encounters with the fearsome Kakamora. The scene culminates with a powerful image: the actress, standing triumphant on her boat, declaring to the world: “I am Moana!”
Moana will not travel alone. The trailer also offers a brief but powerful look at the demigod Maui, played by Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson. In one sequence, he is seen from behind easily transforming from beetle to human. In another, he uses his legendary magic hook to turn into a falcon and take to the skies, promising that chemistry and adventure will be more present than ever.
Johnson not only stars in the film, but also serves as producer alongside a team that includes Beau Flynn, Dany Garcia, Hiram Garcia and composer Lin-Manuel Miranda.
Moana’s family is also complete. John Tui will play the strict father, Chief Tui; Frankie Adams to his mother, Sina; and Rena Owen will play the wise grandmother Tala.
A role with personal meaning
For Catherine Lagaʻaia, playing Moana is a dream and an honor loaded with meaning. When his casting was announced in June, The actress expressed her excitement at representing a character she admires so much and, at the same time, celebrate your roots.
“My grandfather is from Fa’aala, Palauli, in Savai’i. And my grandmother is from Leulumoega Tuai, on the main island of ‘Upolu, in Samoa”Lagaʻaia declared.
“I feel honored to have the opportunity to celebrate Samoa and all the people of the Pacific Islands, and to represent young women who look like me.”
The actress succeeds Auliʻi Cravalho in the role, who lent her voice to Moana in the animated version and its 2024 sequel, and who also serves as executive producer on this new adaptation.
Under the direction of Thomas Kail, known for his work in hamilton, The plot will maintain the essence of Moana’s journey: a young girl who answers the call of the ocean to save her island, defying her parents’ wishes. On his journey, he will face serious dangers, make new friends and discover the truth about his family legacy.
The live-action adaptation of Moana is scheduled to premiere in theaters on July 10, 2026.
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