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NEW: Disney Significantly Postpones Upcoming ‘Moana’ Movie

Moana delay
Credit: Disney, Canva

In the highly anticipated live-action adaptation of the beloved animated film Moana, fans are eager to see the colorful and enchanting world of the original story brought to life in a new, visually stunning way. With the success of other live-action Disney remakes like The Lion King and The Little Mermaid, the adaptation of Moana hopes to be a big hit in theaters. The film holds a special place in the hearts of many, especially given its strong cultural roots in Pacific Islander traditions and mythology.

The re-casting of Dwayne Johnson as the demigod Maui was met with great enthusiasm when it was announced last year. With Auliʻi Cravalho returning as a producer on the film, this live-action project looks to be amazing.

While fans were looking forward to entering this work next summer, it now looks like that won’t be the case. Today, Disney revealed that the live action Moana remake will experience a significant delay, much to the dismay of fans.

Related: Disney Shares New Exclusive First Look at ‘Moana 2’!

maui from disney's moana

Credit: Walt Disney Animation

Live Action ‘Moana’ Pushed Back

The journey of Moana, a brave Polynesian princess on a quest to save her island and discover her true destiny, resonated deeply with audiences in its animated form, and the transition to live-action is expected to deepen that connection even further. The lush landscapes, vibrant music, and powerful themes of identity, heritage, and self-discovery that defined the animated film are all set to be amplified and reimagined in this exciting new version.

However, the live-action Moana, originally scheduled for release on June 27, 2025, has now been rescheduled to hit the big screens on July 10, 2026. This shift in the release date has stirred disappointment and curiosity among fans worldwide. While no reason for the rescheduling has been given, many deduct that it could be due to the fact that Moana 2 is coming out on November 27, 2024. Perhaps Disney decided that the two films needed more space between them.

An Uncertain Future

The decision to postpone the premiere reflects the meticulous planning of Walt Disney Studios. By delaying the release, the filmmakers have the opportunity to fine-tune every aspect of the film and make sure it has its own time to shine, ensuring that it honors the spirit of the original while bringing a fresh perspective to audiences. Additionally, this adjustment allows for the strategic positioning of the movie in the ever-evolving landscape of entertainment, maximizing its potential impact and reach apart from Moana 2.

Moana 2

Credit: Disney

As the countdown to the new premiere date begins, the anticipation for the live-action Moana remake continues to grow, promising an extraordinary cinematic experience that pays homage to the cultural richness and timeless charm of the animated classic. Despite the film’s delay, it does seem that filming in Hawaii is still happening on schedule.

About Eva Miller

Eva was born and raised in the beautiful state of Oregon but has since relocated and lives in New York City. Since she was young, Eva has loved to perform in musicals, especially Disney ones! Through performing, Disney’s music became the soundtrack of her childhood. Today, Eva loves to write about all the exciting happenings for the Walt Disney Company. In her free time, Eva loves to travel, spend time in nature, and go to Broadway shows. Her favorite Disney movie is 'Lilo and Stitch,' and her favorite Park is Disney's Animal Kingdom.