Moana (2026)
Should you always follow your heart across the ocean?
9 Jul 2026 
Russ Matthews Disney continues its journey through its animated catalogue with Moana, a live-action adaptation of one of its most beloved modern classics. Like many of these remakes, the question is not whether it improves on the original, but whether it captures the same sense of adventure, humour and heart. Thankfully, this voyage largely stays on course.
Prompted by a summons from the ocean, Moana (Catherine Laga’aia) leaves her home island of Motunui for the first time, venturing beyond the reef to restore the wellbeing of her people. Alongside the demigod Maui (Dwayne Johnson), she embarks on a mythical journey filled with ancient legends, monstrous creatures and breathtaking ocean adventures.
Fans of the animated film will feel immediately at home. The story remains largely faithful to its source material while introducing a handful of new songs and subtle changes that complement rather than distract from the original. Director Thomas Kail wisely understands that audiences have come to revisit this world, not reinvent it.
Catherine Laga’aia delivers an impressive debut, capturing Moana’s courage, compassion and determination with confidence. Dwayne Johnson once again proves he was born to play Maui, bringing plenty of humour and charisma to the larger-than-life demigod. While no live-action performance can quite match the exaggerated energy of his animated counterpart, Johnson comfortably fills the role and clearly enjoys returning to one of his most popular characters.
The visual effects are among the film’s greatest strengths. The living ocean, mythical creatures and island landscapes are beautifully realised, adding a new layer of realism while retaining the magical spirit that defined the original. Yet it is Jemaine Clement, reprising his role as the treasure-obsessed crab Tamatoa, who once again steals the show. His brief appearance provides some of the film’s biggest laughs and proves why he remains one of Disney’s most memorable supporting villains.
The familiar songs transport audiences back to the islands, celebrating Polynesian culture through music, dance and storytelling. While Moana may not surpass Disney’s finest live-action adaptations, it honours both its animated predecessor and the island heritage that inspired it. Existing fans will leave satisfied, while a new generation is likely to discover why this story has resonated so strongly over the past decade.
What should parents know about Moana?
Like the animated film, Moana draws heavily on the gods, myths and spiritual traditions of Polynesian culture. While these elements are presented within a fantasy adventure, they provide an opportunity for families to discuss different cultures, belief systems and worldviews. There are also several intense sequences involving monsters and supernatural creatures that may frighten younger children, although they are comparable to many other films in Disney’s catalogue.
REEL DIALOGUE: Should you always follow your heart?
One of the recurring messages throughout Moana is the importance of trusting your instincts and following your heart. Moana repeatedly feels called beyond the safety of her island, while Gramma Tala (Rena Owen) encourages confidence in one’s own strength and abilities. Although these ideas make for an inspiring adventure, they also raise an important question. Is following your heart always the wisest path?
The Bible acknowledges that our hearts long for purpose and direction, but it also reminds us that our feelings alone are not always the most reliable guide.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3:5–6
Rather than placing our confidence solely in our instincts, Scripture invites us to place our trust in the God who knows us completely. Following God may not always feel as exciting as chasing our own desires, but his wisdom offers a far more secure compass than our ever-changing emotions.
Moana’s courage is worth celebrating. Yet the greatest adventure any of us can undertake is learning to follow the One who created both the oceans and the people who sail upon them.
Where to look for more details: Proverbs 3:5–6; Jeremiah 17:9; Psalm 32:8; Matthew 7:24–27
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