Disney’s live-action Moana film is all set to begin production in Hawaii.
The first look at Moana’s canoe on set has been spotted, showing the canoe being transported out to sea with the help of a helicopter and filming crew. It looks like the cast has already started filming on location. See the images below.
The film is directed by Thomas Kail, with a screenplay by Jared Bush and Dana Ledoux Miller. Dwayne Johnson will reprise his role as the demigod Maui, while Catherine Laga’aia stars as Moana. John Tui takes on the role of Chief Tui, Moana’s overprotective father, and Frankie Adams will portray her mother, Sina. Rena Owen joins the cast as Gramma Tala, Moana’s grandmother and Chief Tui’s mother.
Synopsis:
Moana brings to life, in a whole new way, the story of a young woman determined to forge her own path. This spectacular adventure celebrates the islands, communities, and traditions of Pacific Islanders.
In a statement, Laga‘aia said, “I’m really excited to embrace this character because Moana is one of my favorites.” Laga‘aia added, “My grandfather comes from Fa‘aala, Palauli, in Savai‘i. And my grandmother is from Leulumoega Tuai on the main island of ‘Upolu in Samoa. I’m honored to have an opportunity to celebrate Samoa and all Pacific Island peoples, and to represent young girls who look like me.”
Produced by Johnson, Dany Garcia, and Hiram Garcia via their Seven Bucks Productions and Beau Flynn via FlynnPictureCo. Lin-Manuel Miranda, who wrote the original songs, will also serve as producer. Executive producers include Scott Sheldon of FlynnPictureCo., Auli‘i Cravalho, who voiced Moana in the 2016 film, and Charles Newirth.
Moana arrives in theaters on July 10, 2026, by Walt Disney Studios. See the footage below.
Source: Reel News Hawaii
