Live-Action Moana Set Photos Reveal Dwayne Johnson’s Maui Look
Fans can debate whether doing a live-action remake of Moana is a good idea until they’re blue in the face, but it’s happening, and there is evidence to prove it. The upcoming Disney project is currently filming, with set photos providing the first look at Dwayne Johnson’s Maui look.
The images come via Cosmic Media on X and show Johnson’s hulking demigod alongside Catherine Laga’aia’s titular character. Check them out below:
Johnson’s appearance isn’t all that surprising, given it was always just going to be him with Maui’s tattoos and limited clothing. However, the production has decided not to copy the character’s build from the animated movie, opting to give him a visible six-pack. There are also shades of The Scorpion King, with Johnson’s hair being a decent length.
As for Moana, she appears to translate much cleaner, as Laga’aia’s outfit is a carbon copy of the one from the 2016 hit. Portraying the Disney princess will be the actress’ big break, but she’s familiar with the business. Her father, Jay Laga’aia, appeared in two of the Star Wars prequel films as Captain Typho.
Thomas Kail will helm the project, which currently holds a July 10, 2026 release date. “I am thrilled to have met Catherine, Rena, Frankie and John through this casting process,” Kail said after landing the job. “I am humbled by this opportunity, and I cannot wait to all be on set together. And there’s no better pair to be in a canoe with than Catherine and Dwayne—actually, trio: Heihei is ready, too.”
For those looking for their Moana fix earlier than 2026, the sequel to the original animated film will arrive in theaters on November 27, 2024. Johnson will reprise his role as Maui, and Auliʻi Cravalho is set to voice Moana once again before handing the reins over to Laga’aia.
