Disney’s live-action adaptation of Moana is arriving on Disney+ on October 21, 2026, bringing the ocean adventure to streaming audiences after its theatrical release earlier this year.

The announcement gives fans another opportunity to experience the story of Moana, the young voyager who travels beyond the reef of her island to help restore prosperity to her people. The film combines familiar characters and music with live-action performances and a new visual interpretation of the animated classic.

When Does Live-Action Moana Arrive on Disney+?

Disney has confirmed that the live-action Moana will be available on Disney+ starting October 21, 2026.

The release follows the film’s theatrical debut on July 10, 2026. Viewers can now prepare to revisit the adventure from home, alongside the animated films already available on the streaming service.

Availability may vary by country, so viewers should check their local Disney+ catalog for the film’s listing and playback options.

Who Stars in the Live-Action Moana?

Catherine Laga’aia takes on the leading role of Moana, bringing the adventurous young navigator to life in this new adaptation.

Dwayne Johnson returns to the role of Maui, the demigod who joins Moana on her journey across the ocean. Johnson previously voiced the character in Disney’s animated films.

The supporting cast includes:

• Catherine Laga’aia as Moana
• Dwayne Johnson as Maui
• John Tui as Chief Tui
• Frankie Adams as Sina
• Rena Owen as Gramma Tala
• Jemaine Clement as Tamatoa

Thomas Kail directs the film, while the production brings together familiar elements from the original story and a live-action approach to the world of Motunui.

What Is the Live-Action Moana About?

The story follows Moana, a young woman chosen by the ocean to undertake a journey beyond the reef surrounding her island home.

As her people face challenges, Moana sets out to restore prosperity to Motunui. During her voyage, she meets Maui, a powerful demigod whose abilities and personality make him an unpredictable companion.

Together, they face dangerous obstacles and discover the importance of courage, identity, and responsibility to their community.

The live-action adaptation revisits the central storyline of Disney’s 2016 animated film while presenting its characters, environments, and ocean adventure through live-action performances.

Does the New Movie Include Music?

Music remains an important part of the Moana franchise. The live-action adaptation includes familiar musical elements alongside a new original song, “Along the Way,” written by Lin-Manuel Miranda.

The film’s soundtrack and performances are part of Disney’s effort to bring the emotional and musical identity of the original story into a different cinematic format.

For longtime fans, the combination of recognizable songs, new performances, and updated visuals is one of the main attractions of the remake.

Is the Live-Action Moana Worth Watching?

The new version may appeal to viewers who enjoyed the animated original and want to see its characters portrayed by live-action performers.

It also offers an opportunity for new audiences to discover Moana’s journey through a different visual approach. However, viewers who prefer the original animation may find that the two versions offer distinct experiences.

With its Disney+ arrival confirmed for October 21, the film is becoming more accessible to subscribers who prefer watching at home rather than in theaters.

Final Thoughts

Disney’s live-action Moana brings a familiar ocean adventure to streaming, with Catherine Laga’aia as Moana and Dwayne Johnson returning as Maui.

The film revisits the original story while introducing live-action performances, updated visuals, and music that connects the adaptation to the broader franchise.

The live-action Moana arrives on Disney+ on October 21, 2026. Viewers should check their local catalog for availability.

Source: Disney+ and Disney’s official press materials.