Key Takeaways
- Moana Live-Action Remake starring Dwayne Johnson set for release on July 10, 2026.
- Johnson in full Maui costume with tattoos, wig, and iconic fishhook in behind-the-scenes photos.
- Johnson co-producing the movie; original TV series sequel plans swapped for big-screen movie.
As audiences prepare to set sail into the world of Moana 2 later this year, work is ongoing for the upcoming Moana live-action remake, which is due to be released on July 10, 2026, as this franchise continues to expand. Dwayne Johnson is once again taking on the role of the loveable, and slightly egotistical, Maui, and the first set images have showcased what people can expect.
Moana will be the latest in a string of Disney live-action remakes in recent years, with the animated characters being brought to life in a whole new way. If it’s successful, it will bring new opportunities for the franchise moving forward, and audiences have been eagerly awaiting their first look at Johnson in the role that he originally brought to life with just his voice in the animated hit.
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In an X post from Cosmic Media, a behind-the-scenes photo was revealed from the set of Moana, which shows Johnson in his complete Maui costume, giving people their first look at the character in the upcoming Disney live-action remake. The actor can be seen with a wig of long flowing hair and the classic outfit shown in the Disney animation. He also has a full body of tattoos, which is a significant element of Maui’s character as they are able to move and showcase their individual personalities based on what Maui says and does. Catherine Laga’aia can also be spotted in the titular role of Moana alongside Johnson as the two act out a scene together.
A further set image was shared on X by Fandango which gives audiences a glimpse at Maui’s iconic Manaiakalani, which is the giant fishhook he uses as his weapon of choice to transform into various animals throughout the movie. The crew are shown holding the hook, while Moana’s boat, on which they spend a large chunk of the film, can also be seen behind them. It is expected that the boat will once again play a significant role in the live-action story, which will be a remake of the original.
Johnson will not only be acting in the live-action Moana but also co-producing it via his Seven Bucks Productions company. Johnson has been part of both animated movies, where he has lent his voice to the character of Maui, including singing in the hit Disney song “You’re Welcome.” Disney had originally planned a TV series sequel for the original movie, but those plans were adjusted as the company surprisingly revealed it would become a big-screen movie instead.
The photo will undoubtedly excite fans of the franchise, who have high expectations for Disney’s latest live-action adaptation. Maui is one of the most important characters in the story, and seeing the detail and effort that has been placed into making Johnson look as close to the animated character as possible will go down well with Moana fans. Of course, Johnson already had the right physique for the role, but seeing him with all of the tattoos and the wig certainly helps bring Maui to life.
