Disney has once again brought one of its most beloved animated classics to life, with Moana sailing into Australian cinemas from 8 July. After attending the Queensland preview screening at Event Cinemas Brisbane City, it’s clear this isn’t simply a frame-for-frame remake—it is a heartfelt celebration of culture, family and identity that feels richer, more authentic and wonderfully human.
While the overall story follows the same much-loved journey as the 2016 animated film, seeing these characters portrayed by real actors creates a completely different emotional connection. Every smile, every tear and every triumphant moment feels genuine, allowing audiences to become even more invested in Moana’s voyage across the ocean. The breathtaking cinematography captures the beauty of the Pacific Islands, while the visual effects seamlessly blend with the real-world environments, creating a magical world that still feels grounded in reality.
One of the film’s greatest strengths is its deep embrace of Pacific Island culture. Throughout the movie, audiences are immersed in traditional language, customs, music and storytelling that feel even more prominent than in the original animation. Rather than simply retelling a familiar story, this live-action adaptation honours the communities that inspired it, giving the film an authenticity and warmth that resonates long after the credits roll.
Catherine Laga’aia shines as Moana
Newcomer and Australian Catherine Laga’aia is simply outstanding in the title role. She perfectly captures Moana’s determination, compassion, courage and youthful curiosity while bringing her own natural charisma to the character. Her performance never feels like an imitation of the animated version—instead, she creates a believable young woman discovering her destiny. Her powerful vocals are equally impressive, delivering the beloved songs with emotion and confidence, making her a star to watch.
Dwayne Johnson was born to play Maui once again
Returning to the role he originally voiced, Dwayne Johnson effortlessly slips back into the larger-than-life demigod Maui. His natural humour, charisma and commanding screen presence remain one of the film’s biggest highlights. While audiences can expect plenty of laughs from Maui’s oversized ego and witty one-liners, Johnson also brings greater emotional depth to the character.
One particularly memorable moment comes when Maui performs a powerful version of the Haka or cultural dance, creating one of the film’s most goosebump-inducing scenes. It’s a stirring tribute to Polynesian heritage that adds another meaningful cultural layer to the story and showcases Johnson’s pride in his own Pacific Island roots.
John Tui brings strength and heart as Chief Tui
As Moana’s protective father, John Tui delivers a heartfelt performance full of warmth, wisdom and quiet strength. His portrayal beautifully captures a father torn between protecting his daughter and allowing her to follow her own path. His emotional moments with Moana feel authentic, adding greater depth to their family relationship than ever before.
Frankie Adams is a loving and supportive Sina
Frankie Adams gives Moana’s mother, Sina, an expanded emotional presence throughout the film. She balances kindness, resilience and unwavering belief in her daughter, becoming a calming force within the family. Adams brings genuine tenderness to every scene, reminding audiences that sometimes quiet encouragement can be just as powerful as grand speeches.
Rena Owen commands the screen as Gramma Tala
The ever-wonderful Rena Owen delivers one of the film’s most touching performances as Gramma Tala. Full of wisdom, humour and spirit, she remains the emotional heart of Moana’s journey. Owen effortlessly captures Tala’s playful nature while also providing the film with many of its most emotional moments. Her guidance continues to remind audiences to embrace who they truly are and listen to the call within.
A fantastic supporting cast
The supporting cast also deserves enormous praise, helping bring Motunui to life with authenticity and warmth. Every village scene feels alive, with performers embracing the rich traditions, music and community spirit that define Polynesian culture. Even familiar characters feel refreshed through these grounded performances, making the island itself feel like another member of the cast.
Visually, Moana is absolutely stunning. The ocean remains a magical character in its own right, while the breathtaking island landscapes, practical locations and enhanced visual effects create a world that feels both epic and believable. The costumes, inspired by traditional Polynesian craftsmanship, are beautifully detailed, and the production design immerses audiences in every part of Moana’s world.
Moana’s unforgettable animal companions make a seamless transition into live action thanks to outstanding CGI. Hei Hei remains hilariously accident-prone, delivering plenty of laugh-out-loud moments with his wonderfully clueless personality, while Pua is just as lovable and loyal as fans remember. The realistic visual effects make both characters feel like they truly belong in Moana’s world, adding warmth, humour and heart throughout the adventure.
Then there’s the larger-than-life Tamatoa, who steals every second of screen time. The giant, treasure-obsessed crab is a dazzling spectacle, with his glittering shell, vibrant colours and larger-than-life personality brought to life through stunning visual effects. His show-stopping performance of ‘Shiny’ is one of the film’s visual highlights, bursting with energy, humour and dazzling underwater imagery that lights up the screen. It’s a sequence that captures all the fun and extravagance of the animated original while feeling even bigger and more immersive in live action.
Fans of the original soundtrack will be delighted to hear many of the beloved songs return, while the orchestral score feels even grander alongside the sweeping live-action visuals. The emotional moments hit harder, the humour lands naturally and the action sequences are more exhilarating thanks to the combination of practical performances and seamless visual effects.
Although audiences know where the story is heading, the live-action adaptation never feels repetitive. Instead, it offers a fresh perspective that enhances the emotional weight of Moana’s journey while remaining faithful to everything fans loved about the original.
Disney has created another successful live-action adaptation that honours its source material while proudly celebrating the people and culture that inspired it. Filled with heart, adventure, spectacular visuals and unforgettable performances, Moana reminds us that finding who we are often begins by answering the call that lies within.
Moana is now playing in cinemas across Australia.
RELEASING EXCLUSIVELY IN AUSTRALIAN CINEMAS ON WEDNESDAY 8 JULY
All images supplied.
