The highly anticipated live-action adaptation of the acclaimed animated film Moana now has a look and, most importantly, a voice. Disney released the first teaser trailer for the film, focusing on its new lead, Catherine Laga?aia, who brings the intrepid chief's daughter to life. The video, released this Monday, offers an exciting glimpse of what's to come. In it, 18-year-old Laga?aia, of Australian-Samoan descent, powerfully performs "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 in a powerful image: the actress, standing triumphant on her boat, declaring to the world, "I am Moana!" Moana won't be traveling alone. The trailer also offers a brief but impactful glimpse of the demigod Maui, played by Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson. In one sequence, she is seen from behind, effortlessly transforming from a beetle into a human. In another, she uses her legendary magic fishhook to become a hawk and soar through the skies, promising that the chemistry and adventure will be more present than ever. Johnson not only stars in the film, but also serves as a 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 her strict father, Chief Tui; Frankie Adams will play her mother, Sina; and Rena Owen will bring to life her wise grandmother, Tala. A role with personal significance: For Catherine Laga?aia, playing Moana is a dream and an honor filled with meaning. When her casting was announced in June, the actress expressed her excitement about portraying a character she admires so much and, at the same time, celebrating her 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,” Laga?aia stated.

“I am honored to have the opportunity to celebrate Samoa and all the peoples of the Pacific Islands, and to represent young women who look like me.”

The actress succeeds Auli?i Cravalho in the role, who voiced Moana in the animated version and its 2024 sequel, and who also serves as an executive producer on this new adaptation.

Directed by Thomas Kail, known for his work on Hamilton, the plot will maintain the essence of Moana's journey: a young woman who answers the ocean's call to save her island, defying her parents' wishes. On her journey, she will face serious dangers, make new friends, and discover the truth about her family legacy.

The live-action adaptation of Moana is scheduled for release in theaters on July 10, 2026.