Disney Postpones Release of Live-Action 'Moana' Film

Disney has delayed the live-action Moana film to 2026, bringing significant changes to the studio's release schedule. Admirers of Moana, the Hawaiian princess, will have to exercise a little more patience, as Disney has announced the postponement of the live-action film of the beloved animation. Initially scheduled to debut in 2025, the release is now scheduled for July 10, 2026, according to information from Variety.

This change, which follows other changes to the Walt Disney Studios calendar, promises to bring renewed expectations and speculation about what's to come.

_{Images from “Moana” (Photo: reproduction/ Walt Disney Animation Studios)}

New Disney release calendar

After a series of changes to the Walt Disney Studios calendar, the highly anticipated live-action Moana film has suffered a significant delay. Originally scheduled to premiere in 2025, viewers will now have to wait until July 10, 2026 to see the film on the big screen. This change follows other rearrangements to the release calendar, including assigning dates to other films like The Mandalorian and Toy Story 5.

Postponed film details

The live-action Moana film will be directed by Thomas Kail, known for his work on Hamilton and Fosse/Verdon. Dwayne Johnson, who voiced the character Maui in the animated version, returns to bring the demigod to life once again. However, actress Auli'i Cravalho, who lent her voice to the protagonist in the animation, will not return to the role, opting to become involved as the project's executive producer.

The plot continues the saga of Moana and Maui in an ancient South Pacific world, as they explore unknown seas and encounter mystical creatures in their search for a legendary island. While the delay may disappoint eager fans, the wait promises to be worth it with a film that seeks to capture the magic and charm of the original story.

While the public eagerly awaits, more updates about the film are expected to be released, keeping expectations alive for the much-awaited release.

Featured photo: Moana and Maui in the film's promotional poster (Reproduction: Walt Disney Animation Studios)