🎬 Movie Review: Moana – Live Action (2026)
“The ocean chose her… again.”
Disney’s Moana – Live Action (2026) reimagines the beloved 2016 animated adventure with heart, cultural respect, and stunning visuals. Directed by Jon M. Chu (Crazy Rich Asians), the film combines real-world Polynesian beauty with magical storytelling, offering a fresh take on the original while honoring what made it special. With Zendaya as Moana and Dwayne Johnson reprising his role as the larger-than-life demigod Maui, this new version is both epic and emotionally rich.
Zendaya brings strength and warmth to Moana, capturing her curiosity, courage, and youthful defiance with grace. Her singing voice adds a soulful, grounded tone to iconic songs like “How Far I’ll Go” and “I Am Moana.” Dwayne Johnson, meanwhile, slips comfortably back into the role of Maui, delivering charm, swagger, and comedy — but this time with more emotional depth and a rawer physical presence that fits the live-action tone perfectly.
The film’s visuals are breathtaking. Shot across locations in Hawaii, Fiji, and New Zealand, the ocean truly becomes a character — shimmering, alive, and mysterious. The special effects are seamlessly integrated, especially for Maui’s shapeshifting and the glowing spirit realm. The reimagining of Te Fiti and Te Kā is visually stunning, blending practical effects with CGI to great emotional effect.
The updated script expands on the mythology and culture, with more screen time for Moana’s ancestors and the spiritual weight of her lineage. Polynesian consultants were heavily involved, and it shows: the tattoos, rituals, and navigation sequences feel authentic, respectful, and educational without being preachy. The film balances humor and drama skillfully, with a few new songs that enhance the emotional beats.
Not every change is perfect — some fans may miss the animated version’s vibrant energy and exaggerated visuals — but this live-action version earns its place through sincerity and powerful performances. The chemistry between Moana and Maui is stronger than ever, especially in quieter scenes that give their relationship emotional grounding.
Final Verdict: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
Moana – Live Action (2026) is a visually stunning, emotionally resonant retelling of a modern Disney classic. Zendaya and Dwayne Johnson shine in roles that feel both new and familiar, and the film’s respect for culture, music, and myth makes it one of Disney’s strongest live-action adaptations to date. The ocean called her once — and now, it calls again.
