When Does Moana 2 Come Out?
Disney’s Moana 2 is set to hit theaters on November 27, 2024, just in time for Thanksgiving. The sequel will premiere exclusively in theaters before becoming available on Disney+. Early showtimes, including premium options like IMAX and 3D, will begin on the evening of November 26, giving fans an early chance to see Moana and Maui’s next big adventure.
For international audiences, Moana 2 will debut in India on November 29, 2024, in both English and Hindi.
The Cast of Moana 2
Fans will be thrilled to know that key members of the original Moana cast are reprising their roles:
- Auliʻi Cravalho as Moana
- Dwayne Johnson as Maui
- Returning stars include Temuera Morrison, Nicole Scherzinger, Rachel House, and Alan Tudyk.
Additionally, new voices will join the ensemble, including Khaleesi Lambert-Tsuda, Rose Matafeo, and David Fane. The film is directed by David Derrick Jr., Jason Hand, and Dana Ledoux Miller, with Christina Chen and Yvett Merino as producers.
Plot: What Is Moana 2 About?
Set three years after the original film, Moana 2 follows Moana and Maui on a perilous new voyage across Oceania. Moana receives a mysterious call from her wayfinding ancestors, leading her to explore dangerous and long-lost waters. Together with a crew of unlikely allies, they must confront the powerful storm god Nalo, who guards the cursed island of Motufetu. This new threat pushes Moana to her limits, making for a story filled with adventure, heart, and growth.
Fresh Tracks for the Sequel
While the original Moana soundtrack featured songs by Lin-Manuel Miranda, the sequel will introduce a new musical team. Grammy winners Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear, known for their viral Bridgerton musical, join Grammy nominee Opetaia Foaʻi and Grammy-winning composer Mark Mancina to create the music for Moana 2. Barlow and Bear also make history as Disney’s first female composer duo.
The Live-Action Moana
While Moana 2 is animated, Disney is also developing a live-action adaptation of the original 2016 film. The live-action version is set to premiere on July 10, 2026.
Key details about the live-action film include:
- Catherine Laga’aia, a 17-year-old Australian actress of Samoan descent, will play Moana.
- Dwayne Johnson will reprise his role as Maui, bringing the demigod to life in live-action.
- The cast also features John Tui as Chief Tui, Frankie Adams as Sina, and Rena Owen as Gramma Tala.
- Auliʻi Cravalho, who voiced Moana in the animated films, serves as an executive producer.
Production began in Hawaii in August 2024, with Johnson sharing behind-the-scenes photos of his transformation into Maui.
Will Moana 2 Be Available on Streaming?
After its exclusive theatrical run, Moana 2 will stream on Disney+, though an official date has not yet been confirmed. Based on Disney’s typical timeline, the film may hit Disney+ in March 2025, about 100 days after its theatrical debut. A digital release on platforms like Amazon and iTunes is expected in January 2025.
Why Fans Are Excited
The original Moana was a cultural phenomenon, grossing over $645 million worldwide and earning critical acclaim for its celebration of Polynesian culture, empowering story, and unforgettable soundtrack. With a stellar cast, a fresh storyline, and exciting musical contributions, Moana 2 is poised to be one of Disney’s biggest releases of 2024.
Whether you’re eagerly awaiting the animated sequel or intrigued by the live-action adaptation, the world of Moana is expanding in thrilling ways. Set sail with Moana and Maui this Thanksgiving and stay tuned for the live-action film in 2026!
Checkout the Moana 2 Official trailer below:
