Moana OTT release and platform details: When and where to watch Dwayne Johnson and Catherine Lagaʻaia’s live-action adaptation in India

Moana (2026) is a live-action reimagining of Disney’s beloved 2016 animated adventure. Directed by Thomas Kail (Hamilton), the musical adventure stars newcomer Catherine Lagaʻaia in the titular role, alongside Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, who reprises his role as the demigod Maui. The makers have now announced the film’s digital release date.

Streaming details of Moana live-action movie

The live-action Moana will stream on Disney+ from October 21, 2026, the platform has announced. However, its availability on JioHotstar in India is yet to be confirmed. The film, directed by Thomas Kail, stars Catherine Lagaʻaia as Moana and Dwayne Johnson as Maui. It arrived in theatres on July 10, 2026, and its digital release follows its theatrical run.




Catherine Lagaʻaia takes on the role of Moana, the young woman who ventures beyond her island to protect her community. The casting brings a fresh face to the central character, previously voiced by Auliʻi Cravalho in Disney’s animated films.

Dwayne Johnson returns to the franchise as Maui, the shape-shifting demigod who joins Moana on her journey. Johnson voiced the character in the animated version but appears on screen as Maui in the live-action adaptation.

The supporting cast includes John Tui, Frankie Adams and Rena Owen in important roles. Together, the actors bring the island community and the story’s other characters to the screen.

Thomas Kail, known for directing the stage production of Hamilton, has directed the live-action film. The project reimagines Disney’s 2016 animated adventure, retaining its central storyline while presenting the characters and their world in a different format.

What is Moana about?

The story follows Moana, a young islander who feels a pull toward the ocean, despite the boundaries set by her people. She sets out on a perilous quest beyond the reef to save her island and restore Te Fiti's heart when her people are in danger.

During her journey she meets a mighty demigod named Maui whose powers will be useful for her quest. Although the two have different personalities and approaches, they must work together to overcome obstacles and complete their journey.

The live action version follows the main plot of the original animated movie. Besides its mythical parts and musical breaks, it brings back its themes of courage, family, identity, and self-discovery. The ocean remains a crucial element of Moana’s voyage as she learns to trust her instincts and take ownership of the future of her people.

The film aims to recreate the familiar world of the animated original through live-action performances and visual effects, while keeping the main events of Moana’s journey intact.

Moana box office collection

The film’s theatrical performance has also drawn attention. According to Deadline, the live-action adaptation earned around $323 million worldwide against a reported production budget of $250 million. Some reports placed its worldwide collection at approximately $315 million.

Despite the global collection, the film did not attract the larger theatrical audience the studio may have hoped for. Disney president and chief creative officer Dana Walden reportedly addressed the box-office performance and discussed why the film had not drawn more moviegoers.

With its digital premiere scheduled for October 21, the film will now reach audiences through streaming. Indian viewers waiting to watch the live-action adventure at home should keep an eye out for confirmation of its availability on JioHotstar, as the local streaming details have not yet been officially confirmed.