Moana sails back to Belgian cinemas with a new live-action adaptation directed by Thomas Kail. Starring Catherine Laga‘aia as Moana alongside Dwayne Johnson as Maui, this film brings the beloved story to life with stunning visuals and a fresh perspective. Did you know that Catherine Laga‘aia, a newcomer, was cast after an extensive global search?
Disney's Moana is making a splash in Belgian cinemas, and this time it’s not just animated—it’s a full-blown live-action adventure! Directed by Thomas Kail, known for his work on Hamilton, this 2026 adaptation brings the beloved 2016 story to life with a stunning new cast and breathtaking visuals. The film follows Moana as she answers the Ocean’s call, voyaging beyond the reef of Motunui with the demigod Maui to restore prosperity to her people.
Did you know? The role of Moana went to Catherine Laga‘aia, a relatively unknown actress of Samoan descent, after a global search that saw thousands of hopefuls. Director Thomas Kail wanted an authentic Polynesian voice, and Laga‘aia’s powerful audition won her the part. Meanwhile, Dwayne Johnson reprises his role as Maui, bringing his signature charisma and muscle to the demigod—but this time, the tattoos are real prosthetics, not just CGI!
The film blends Family, Fantasy, Comedy, and Adventure genres, making it a perfect outing for all ages. With a runtime of 115 minutes and a TMDB rating of 7.5/10, it’s a crowd-pleaser that stays true to the original while adding new layers. Behind the scenes, the production team spent months in New Zealand and the Pacific Islands to capture authentic landscapes, and the result is a visual feast that transports you straight to Motunui.
Fans of the original will love the familiar songs, but there’s also a new track composed by Lin-Manuel Miranda, who returns to the franchise. The chemistry between Laga‘aia and Johnson is electric, and Rena Owen, John Tui, and Frankie Adams round out a stellar supporting cast. Whether you’re a die-hard Disney fan or just looking for a fun escape, Moana is a voyage worth taking.
