First Look! 7 Shocking Details Revealed In The Live-Action Moana Set Photos (2025 Updates)

The highly anticipated live-action adaptation of Disney's Moana is officially underway, and as of late 2024 and early 2025, the first wave of set photos has finally surfaced, giving fans a thrilling glimpse into the world of Motunui and the legendary demigod Maui. This is not a drill: the production is currently in full swing, shooting on location in the breathtaking landscapes of Hawaii, confirming the commitment to authenticity and the film's massive scale. The initial images have sparked immediate excitement, revealing key details about the costume designs, the physical transformation of the cast, and the stunning real-world environments that will bring the beloved animated story to life.

The buzz surrounding the live-action Moana has been immense since its announcement, and these fresh set photos—emerging in the final quarter of 2024—serve as the most concrete proof yet that the journey across the ocean is truly beginning. From Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson's incredible physical embodiment of Maui to the first looks at newcomer Catherine Laga'aia as the titular heroine, this article breaks down all the major reveals, cast details, and production updates you need to know about the 2026 blockbuster.

The Star-Studded Cast of Disney's Live-Action Moana

The success of the live-action remake hinges on capturing the heart and spirit of the original characters, and the casting announcements have been met with widespread approval. The production has successfully blended a returning superstar with incredible new talent from the Pacific Islands, ensuring a powerful connection to the film's cultural roots. Below is a complete profile of the confirmed main cast.

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The Main Cast and Key Profiles

• Catherine Laga'aia as Moana:
  • Role: The determined and adventurous daughter of the village chief, chosen by the Ocean to restore the heart of Te Fiti.
  • Profile: A talented young actress from Sydney, Australia, with a heritage rooted in Fa’a Samoa and the people of the Torres Strait.
  • Age: 17 years old (at the time of casting announcement).
  • Experience: While relatively new to major film roles, her selection was praised for prioritizing authentic Polynesian talent.
• Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson as Maui:
  • Role: The legendary demigod of the wind and sea, and a hero to all.
  • Profile: Reprising his role from the 2016 animated film, Johnson is also a producer on the live-action project.
  • Heritage: Samoan and Black Nova Scotian.
  • Key Detail: He is the only original cast member confirmed to return for the live-action version.
• John Tui as Chief Tui:
  • Role: Moana's overprotective but loving father, the leader of Motunui.
  • Profile: A New Zealand actor of Tongan descent, known for roles in Hobbs & Shaw and Young Rock.
• Frankie Adams as Sina:
  • Role: Moana's supportive and compassionate mother.
  • Profile: A New Zealand actress of Samoan heritage, recognized for her work in The Expanse.
• Rena Owen as Gramma Tala:
  • Role: Moana's wise and eccentric grandmother, the village storyteller.
  • Profile: A respected New Zealand actress of Māori descent, known for her powerful performance in Once Were Warriors.

The Most Revealing Live-Action Moana Set Photos and Filming Secrets

The recent surge of leaked and official set photos has provided tangible evidence of the production's direction, confirming several key aspects that fans have speculated about for years. The focus on practical effects and on-location shooting is immediately evident, promising a visually spectacular and grounded cinematic experience. The initial set photos emerged in November 2024, confirming filming is active and intense.

1. Dwayne Johnson’s Full Maui Transformation

The biggest reveal from the set photos is undoubtedly the first look at Dwayne Johnson fully transformed into Maui. Unlike the animated character, who relied on a more stylized, cartoonish physique, Johnson's live-action Maui is a massive, beefy, and imposing figure, complete with his iconic, intricately detailed tattoos. The photos show Johnson wearing minimal clothing, allowing his immense physical presence and the stunning body makeup—which replicates Maui's magical, moving tattoos—to take center stage. This commitment to the demigod's iconic look, using a combination of practical makeup and what will surely be enhanced with CGI, has thrilled fans who were eager to see how the character would translate to live action.

2. Authentic Hawaiian Filming Locations

The production team has made a clear effort to ground the story in authentic Polynesian landscapes. Set photos confirm that a significant portion of the filming is taking place on the island of O‘ahu, Hawaii. These locations provide the lush, tropical backdrops and stunning ocean vistas necessary to recreate Motunui and the vast Pacific Ocean. The use of real-world settings, rather than reliance on sound stages, is a critical element in achieving the film’s "live-action" realism, immersing the audience in the natural beauty of the South Pacific.

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3. Catherine Laga'aia Shooting a Pivotal Scene

Recent photos also captured Catherine Laga'aia on the set, reportedly shooting a pivotal scene involving a boat. While specific plot details remain under wraps, the images show Laga'aia in costume, interacting with a traditional Polynesian sailing vessel. This suggests that the film will not shy away from the challenging water sequences that were so central to the original's narrative. The intensity and focus seen in these pictures hint at the emotional weight and adventurous scope of Moana's journey beyond the reef.

4. The Costumes: A Blend of Tradition and Cinematic Detail

While the photos are often grainy, they offer a good look at the costume design. Maui's attire, which includes traditional Polynesian elements and a hook, appears to be a faithful but elevated version of his animated look. Moana's costume, too, seems to be a respectful and detailed interpretation of the traditional Pacific Island garments, using natural fabrics and intricate weaving. The emphasis is clearly on cultural authenticity, moving beyond simple movie costumes to create attire that feels genuinely connected to the Polynesian culture and history that inspired the film.

5. Filming is Currently Underway in Late 2024

The most crucial piece of information for fans is the confirmation of the active filming schedule. The set photos, dated in November 2024, indicate that the principal photography is in full swing. This timeline keeps the production on track for its ambitious release date and demonstrates that the initial delays have been overcome. The production is reportedly using both Hawaii and Atlanta, Georgia, for various stages of filming, likely utilizing Georgia's advanced studio facilities for interior and complex visual effects shots.

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6. The Director's Broadway Pedigree

While not a set photo detail, the director's presence is a key production secret revealed. The film is helmed by Thomas Kail, best known for directing the Broadway smash hit Hamilton. Kail's background in musical theater suggests a strong emphasis on the film's musical numbers and dramatic performances. His ability to manage large-scale, complex productions bodes well for the ambitious scope of Moana, ensuring that the live-action version honors the iconic songs like "How Far I'll Go" and "You're Welcome."

7. The July 2026 Theatrical Release Date

All the set photo reveals and production updates are marching toward one goal: the official theatrical release date of July 10, 2026. This summer blockbuster slot underscores Disney's confidence in the film's potential. The two-year lead time from the current filming period allows ample time for the extensive post-production work, including the complex visual effects needed to bring the Ocean, the Kakamora, and the transformation sequences to life. The early set photos are the first exciting steps on this long voyage to the big screen.

The Topical Authority of Live-Action Remakes

The live-action Moana is a critical entry in Disney's ongoing strategy of reimagining its animated classics. This production is unique because of the direct involvement of Dwayne Johnson and the commitment to casting actors of Polynesian descent, which adds a layer of cultural responsibility and anticipation. The film is not just a remake; it is a cultural event, aiming to deepen the connection between the audience and the rich mythology of the Pacific Islands. The early set photos confirm this commitment, showing a production that prioritizes on-location realism and authentic casting over purely studio-bound fantasy.

This approach to live-action remakes, which focuses on cultural fidelity and spectacular, real-world locations, is a key trend in modern Hollywood. The use of practical effects for Maui’s tattoos, combined with the stunning natural beauty of O‘ahu, suggests that the Moana team is aiming for a cinematic experience that feels both grounded and magical. As more set photos emerge, fans will undoubtedly get a closer look at other key elements, such as the boat designs, the village of Motunui, and perhaps even a glimpse of the adorable Pua and Heihei. The journey has begun, and the first set photos are a powerful promise of the epic adventure to come.