Disney announced that its live‑action adaptation of the beloved Polynesian adventure will hit theaters on July 10, 2026, with a runtime of one hour and 51 minutes. The new version, directed by Thomas Kail, surpasses the original 2016 animated film’s 107‑minute length, marking a franchise first.

Live‑action Moana's 111‑minute runtime breaks franchise record

According to a Disney spokesperson cited by ScreenRant, the remake runs 111 minutes , four minutes longer than the animated classic. The extra time could accommodate new scenes or expanded sequences, a pattern seen in recent Disney live‑action projects such as the 2025 Lilo & Stitch remake, which added 23 minutes.

July 10, 2026 release marks ten‑year gap since animated debut

The upcoming film arrives just under a decade after the original’s 2016 release, the shortest interval Disney has ever recorded between an animated title and its live‑action counterpart. The rapid turnaround follows the 2024 sequel, Moana 2, which took eight years to develop and joined the billion‑dollar club despite mixed reviews.

Thomas Kail directs with Dwayne Johnson returning as Maui

Thomas Kail, known for his Broadway work, helms the project, while Dwayne Johnson reprises his live‑action role as the demigod Maui.. The casting continuity aims to preserve the chemistry that helped the original earn two Academy Award nominations for Best Original Song and Best Animated Feature.

Catherine Laga‘aia steps into Moana role as Auliʻi Cravalho shifts to EP

Newcomer Catherine Laga‘aia will portray Moana on screen, replacing Auliʻi Cravalho, who transitions to an executive‑producer position. Cravalho’s decision to “pass the baton” was confirmed in a recent interview, underscoring Disney’s commitment to authentic Polynesian representation.

Will AI tools be used in the remake's visual effects?

The production has faced criticism over rumored artificial‑intelligence assistance in creating Maui’s live‑action look. while Disney has not confirmed the technology’s role, the controversy highlights ongoing industry debates about AI in filmmaking.

Overall ,the live‑action Moana aims to honor the original’s 95% Rotten Tomatoes approval while leveraging a longer format to deepen the mythic journey of returning a relic to the goddess Te Fiti.