---
title: "Moana"
year: 2026
canonical_url: "https://www.archytele.com/show/moana-2026"
media_type: "movie"
tmdb_id: 1108427
imdb_id: "tt27419466"
status: "Released"
runtime_minutes: 115
community_rating: 5.8
vote_count: 109
content_rating: "PG"
---

# Moana (2026) — Television & Cinema Intelligence Dossier

> **Archytele Living Vault Canonical Record**: https://www.archytele.com/show/moana-2026

## Executive Summary & Cultural Positioning

Moana is an upcoming American live-action musical fantasy film directed by Thomas Kail, based on Disney's 2016 animated feature of the same name. The film follows Moana, portrayed by Catherine Lagaʻaia, a young woman from the island of Motunui who is chosen by the ocean to embark on a vital mission. She sets sail beyond her island's reef for the first time, accompanied by the legendary demigod Maui, played by Dwayne Johnson. Their journey aims to restore prosperity to her people by returning the heart of Te Fiti. John Tui and Frankie Adams also star in the film, which is scheduled to be released on July 10, 2026. It marks the third entry in the Moana franchise and serves as the first live-action installment. The screenplay is written by Jared Bush and Dana Ledoux Miller.

## The Hook & The Verdict

**The Hook**: "Moana embarks on a perilous voyage beyond her island home, guided by the ocean and joined by the legendary demigod Maui."

### Why Watch
- breathtaking oceanic visuals and musical sequences
- a fresh take with Catherine Lagaʻaia stepping into the lead role

### Caveats & Content Note
- some may miss the charm of the original animated version
- Tone & Suitability: Suitable for families, with themes of courage and cultural heritage woven throughout.

**Micro-Themes & Vibe Matrix**: epic, uplifting, mysterious, adventurous, musical

## Streaming Availability Matrix

Direct streaming licensing updates dynamically. Consult the live tracking interface at https://www.archytele.com/show/moana-2026#watch.

## Creative Credits

- **Directed by**: Thomas Kail
- **Networks / Studios**: Walt Disney Pictures, Seven Bucks Productions, Flynn Picture Company

## Key Cast Continuity

- **Dwayne Johnson** as *Maui*
- **Catherine Lagaʻaia** as *Moana*
- **Rena Owen** as *Gramma Tala*
- **John Tui** as *Chief Tui*
- **Frankie Adams** as *Sina*
- **Jemaine Clement** as *Tamatoa (voice)*
- **Emma Puahi-Shapazian** as *Moana (4 years old)*
- **Amaya Masoli** as *Moana (8 years old)*
- **Sam Puefua** as *Village Fisherman*
- **Sione Milford** as *Coconut Farmer*

## Canonical Frequently Asked Questions

### Q: Is this a remake of the original Moana?
Yes, it is a live-action reimagining of the 2016 animated film.

### Q: Who plays Moana in the live-action version?
Catherine Lagaʻaia takes on the role of Moana in this version.

### Q: Does Auli’i Cravalho return as Moana?
No, Auli’i Cravalho, who voiced Moana in the animated films, did not reprise her role.

### Q: When is the movie coming out?
The film is scheduled for release in July 2026.

### Q: Is the movie musical?
Yes, it features musical elements, continuing the tradition of the original.

## Grounded Source Citations

- [Moana - Disney Movies](https://movies.disney.com/moana-2026)
- [Moana (2026 film) - Wikipedia](https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moana_(2026_film))
- [Moana - Movie Trailer & Book tickets | Disney](https://www.disney.co.uk/movies/moana-2026)
- [Moana (2026 film) | Disney Wiki | Fandom](https://disney.fandom.com/wiki/Moana_(2026_film))
- [Moana (2026) - IMDb](https://m.imdb.com/title/tt27419466/)
- [Moana (2026 film) - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moana_(2026_film))

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*Generated by Archytele Open Intelligence Systems. Data verified against TMDB and JustWatch APIs.*