Disney's Live-Action Moana Is a Joyous Voyage Worth Taking

Wednesday evening, families packed Event Cinemas Brisbane City for the exclusive preview of Disney's live-action Moana (2026) — not a sequel, but a reimagining of the beloved Oscar-nominated animated adventure, now rendered in flesh, salt water and handwoven tapa cloth.

Disney has long possessed the remarkable ability to create films that speak equally to children and adults, and Moana continues that tradition beautifully. Rich in vibrant colour, island landscapes and uplifting musical performances by its talented cast, the film celebrates life, love, family and our shared responsibility to care for the world around us.

A Film for Every Generation

Younger audiences will delight in the colourful storytelling, memorable characters and infectious songs — Lin-Manuel Miranda, Opetaia Foaʻi and Mark Mancina's all-new renditions of the original soundtrack are genuinely exhilarating. Adults are treated to gentle humour and thoughtful themes — the kind that stay with you on the drive home.

Catherine Lagaʻaia, selected from over 32,000 submissions worldwide, steps into Moana's role with remarkable instinct and grace. Dwayne Johnson returns as the shape-shifting demigod Maui, bringing both the swagger and the emotional depth the role demands.

More Than Entertainment

What elevates this Moana above a simple remake is the sincerity of its ideas. The film explores environmental stewardship and sustainability through its narrative — encouraging audiences to value our natural world and recognise that meaningful change begins at home. These themes arrive with warmth and optimism, making the film not only wonderful entertainment but an ideal springboard for thoughtful conversations between parents and children.

Equally present is a celebration of tradition: respect for elders, belief in one's own abilities, and the enduring strength of community. These are not afterthoughts but the architecture of the story itself.

The production reflects that commitment. Director Thomas Kail (Hamilton) worked throughout filming with a dedicated Cultural Trust of Pacific scholars and artisans. Over 200 cast members of Pacific descent bring the island of Motunui to life — costumes handcrafted from tapa cloth, sets built using traditional lashing techniques, every prop designed with cultural intentionality.

The Verdict

Filled with colour, movement, humour and heart, Disney's live-action Moana is a delightful cinematic experience for audiences of every generation. Children will leave inspired by its adventure and music; parents will appreciate its emotional depth and positive messages. A joyful celebration of imagination, family, culture and our beautiful planet.

Starring Catherine Lagaʻaia as Moana, Dwayne Johnson as the demigod Maui, Rena Owen as the wise and wonderfully eccentric Gramma Tala, John Tui as Chief Tui, Frankie Adams as Sina, and Jemaine Clement as the voice of the glitzy giant crab Tamatoa.

★★★★½

Disney's Moana | Rated PG | 115 mins | In cinemas now Directed by Thomas Kail

Photography: Max Vethaak / Vethaak Media