Overview
- Disney, which unveiled the full trailer and poster Monday, confirmed a July 10, 2026 theatrical release and introduced Catherine Lagaʻaia as Moana opposite Dwayne Johnson’s returning Maui.
- Dwayne Johnson said the Maui transformation required a 40‑pound prosthetic bodysuit and wig with about two and a half hours of daily prep.
- Filmmakers chose practical makeup over fully digital body effects, and director Thomas Kail said Maui’s wig was built to move in wind and water during ocean scenes.
- Social posts quickly turned critical, with many calling the trailer a near shot‑for‑shot redo of the 2016 film and roasting Johnson’s live‑action look, especially the wig and overall styling.
- The campaign highlights creative lineage and consultation, with Kail directing, Johnson and Lin‑Manuel Miranda producing, Auliʻi Cravalho executive producing, and new songs from Miranda, Opetaia Foaʻi and Mark Mancina, even as outlets split between promotion of authenticity and design critiques.