"Moana," a live-action film adaptation of the classic Disney animated film (directed by Thomas Kale), will be released in Japan on July 31st. In addition to 2D screenings, it has now been announced that the film will also be shown in IMAX and premium large format (Dolby Cinema, 4DX, ScreenX) to fully experience the live-action version. Along with this announcement, four poster visuals that dynamically express the appeal of each format were unveiled on June 30th.
"Moana" tells the story of Moana, a girl with a special bond to the sea who lives on the mystical paradise island of Motunui in the South Seas. To save her beloved family and the world, she embarks on an adventurous journey across the vast ocean. She searches for the legendary demigod Maui, and together they overcome various hardships, forging her own path in life.
The first animated film in the series, "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 1 dollar = 150 yen, the same applies below) and was nominated for two Academy Awards: Best Animated Feature Film and Best Original Song. "Moana 2," released in December 2024, was an even bigger hit, grossing $1.05 billion (approximately 157.5 billion yen).
In the live-action film, 19-year-old rising star Lagaia, known for her "miraculous singing voice," has been cast as Moana, while Dwayne Johnson, who voiced the same character in the animated version, will play Maui. In the Japanese version, Moana will be voiced by TSUZUMI of the girl group ME:I, a "true Moana fan" whose strong singing and acting abilities have been recognized by Disney headquarters in the US, while Maui will be voiced by Kabuki actor Matsuya Onoe, who, like Dwayne Johnson, will reprise his role from the animated version.
◇Immersive, immersive, and supreme visual experience with IMAX and premium large format.
IMAX and premium large format (Dolby Cinema, 4DX, ScreenX) offer a different visual experience compared to 2D.
IMAX offers the ultimate visual experience, combining a screen significantly larger than a standard screen with high-definition images and advanced sound technology. The powerful sound and stunning visuals create the sensation of dynamic waves crashing right before your eyes. You can experience Moana's grand adventure with a sense of immersion as if you've stepped into the world of the movie.
Dolby Cinema delivers immersive, three-dimensional sound that perfectly matches the visuals, reproducing even the soothing sounds of waves and wind, and the characters' breathing with remarkable clarity. Furthermore, you can enjoy the iconic songs performed by the live-action cast, such as "How Far I'll Go," Moana's declaration of determination, and "You've Got It," which fully showcases Maui's confident yet endearing charm, in superb sound quality.
In the "4DX" immersive theater system, where the seating moves in sync with the scenes and special effects stimulating the five senses such as wind and mist are unleashed, the feeling of being on a ship is realistically recreated, making you feel as if you are adventuring with Moana and Maui. You can experience the fierce winds and storms, and even the impact of the powerful action. Furthermore, to enhance the music scenes, the production balances rhythmic expression with on-screen movement, resulting in a highly immersive experience.
In addition to the screen in front, images are also projected onto the left and right walls, allowing you to enjoy a 270° world that goes beyond the limits of your field of vision. With vast oceans, islands, and skies filling both screens, you can experience an overwhelming sense of immersion, as if you were sailing the endless seas with Moana.
A special cinematic experience where you can fully feel the charm of this "super" live-action version. Experience the "healing" that the magnificent ocean offers and the "emotion" that Moana delivers on the big screen in IMAX or premium large format. The musical adventure "Moana" opens on July 31st.
