The release date in Japan for "Moana" (directed by Thomas Kail), a live-action film adaptation of the Disney animation classic, has been set for July 31st.
"Moana" tells the story of Moana, a girl "chosen by the sea," who embarks on an unimaginable adventure across the beautiful and mysterious ocean with the legendary demigod hero Maui to save her beloved family and the world. The first animated film, "Moana," produced in 2016 (released in Japan in March 2017), grossed over $640 million worldwide (approximately 96 billion yen, according to Box Office Mojo, calculated at 150 yen to the dollar, same below) and was nominated for two Academy Awards: Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song. "Moana 2," released in December 2024, was a huge hit, grossing $1.05 billion (approximately 157.5 billion yen), surpassing the previous film.
For this live-action film, 19-year-old rising star Katherine Lagaia, who has a ``miraculous singing voice,'' has been chosen to play the role of Moana, and Maui will be played by Dwayne Johnson, who also played the same role in the animated version.
In the trailer, Lagaia sings the classic song "How Far I'll Go," which reflects Moana's inner voice and her love for the ocean. Original music by Lin-Manuel Miranda, who wrote "How Far I'll Go" for the animated film, as well as Opetaia Foa'i and Mark Mancina, will also appear in the film.
