Disney is shifting the spotlight from spectacle to craftsmanship with the newly released “Artistry of Moana” featurette, a behind-the-scenes look at the creative work shaping its live-action reimagining of “Moana.” Instead of focusing on new action beats or selling the adventure through trailer moments, this latest preview leans into the people, detail, and cultural care behind the film. With commentary from Dwayne Johnson, Catherine Lagaʻaia, director Thomas Kail, costume designer Liz McGregor, and choreographer Tiana Nonosina Liufau, the featurette frames “Moana” as a movie built as much through design, movement, and music as through its story.

The Heart of the Voyage Lives in the Craft

What makes this featurette stand out is how clearly it centers the hands behind the film. Disney is not just showing off a remake, it is showing how that remake is being built. From costume work to performance to choreography, the preview gives audiences a better sense of the thought going into every layer of the movie’s visual and emotional identity.

That approach feels especially important for “Moana.” The original film connected because it felt full of movement, personality, and a strong sense of place. A live-action version has to do more than recreate familiar moments. It has to translate that spirit into something tactile and cinematic, and this featurette suggests Disney knows that the artistry behind the film will be a major part of whether that transition works.

A Stronger Look at the Team Steering the Live-Action Moana

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Catherine Laga’aia on the set of Disney’s live-action MOANA. Photo courtesy of Disney. © 2026 Disney Enterprises, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

The featurette also helps define the live-action version through the artists shaping it. Thomas Kail directs the film, while Catherine Lagaʻaia steps into the role of Moana and Dwayne Johnson returns as Maui. Hearing from key creatives like Liz McGregor and Tiana Nonosina Liufau adds welcome focus to the craftsmanship that can often get lost behind a major Disney title.

That creative attention extends to the film’s music as well. “Moana” features original songs by Lin-Manuel Miranda, Opetaia Foaʻi, and Mark Mancina, along with an original score by Mancina. Combined with the visual design and movement highlighted in the featurette, the film is positioning itself as an experience shaped by texture, rhythm, and performance, not just nostalgia for the animated classic.

The supporting cast also adds weight to the world around Moana. John Tui plays Chief Tui, Frankie Adams plays Sina, and Rena Owen takes on the role of Gramma Tala. Together, the cast and creative team suggest Disney wants this version of “Moana” to feel grounded in character and atmosphere as much as scale.

A New Journey Sets Sail This Summer

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(L-R) Rena Owen and Catherine Laga’aia on the set of Disney’s live-action MOANA. Photo courtesy of Disney. © 2026 Disney Enterprises, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Disney’s “Moana” sails exclusively into theaters on July 10, 2026. Fans can watch the “Artistry of Moana” featurette now, while the full film will arrive exclusively on the big screen this summer.

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Does the “Artistry of Moana” featurette make you more excited for the live-action film? Are behind-the-scenes looks like this more effective than a standard trailer for winning you over? What matters most to you in a live-action “Moana,” the visuals, the music, or the cultural detail? Share your thoughts in the comments or @me.

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