Disney Shares Behind-the-Scenes Look at New Song “Along the Way” in Live-Action ‘Moana’

Disney has unveiled a first behind-the-scenes glimpse of a new original song titled “Along The Way” from its forthcoming live-action adaptation of ‘Moana’.

This update comes from Disney’s official promotional materials for the film, which is currently in production and set for release in 2026. The song is penned by Lin-Manuel Miranda, who also contributed to the music for the original animated film. It features performances by Auliʻi Cravalho, Catherine Lagaʻaia, and Dwayne Johnson.

Directed by Thomas Kail, the live-action ‘Moana’ marks his feature film debut. The screenplay is crafted by Jared Bush and Dana Ledoux Miller, with production led by a team that includes Dwayne Johnson, Hiram and Dany Garcia, Beau Flynn, and Lin-Manuel Miranda.

Dwayne Johnson reprises his role as Maui, a character he originally voiced in the 2016 animated version. Catherine Lagaʻaia takes on the role of Moana in her first significant film appearance. Other cast members include John Tui as Chief Tui, Frankie Adams as Sina, Rena Owen as Gramma Tala, and Jemaine Clement returning as the voice of Tamatoa.

Filming for the project took place in various locations, including Atlanta and Hawaii, from July to November 2024. The film was first announced in April 2023 by Dwayne Johnson, with Thomas Kail confirmed as the director shortly thereafter. Catherine Lagaʻaia was announced as Moana in June 2024, along with the rest of the main cast.

The narrative follows Moana as she is called by the ocean to leave her island of Motunui for the first time. She journeys beyond the reef with Maui to restore balance to the world and aid her people.

The new song “Along The Way” is part of the film’s refreshed musical direction while remaining connected to the emotional essence of the original story. The behind-the-scenes feature highlights how the cast united during the recording process and how the music enhances the relationships between the characters.

Dwayne Johnson brings back the larger-than-life demigod Maui, blending humor and confidence. Catherine Lagaʻaia’s portrayal of Moana presents her as a young leader discovering her identity while stepping into a broader world beyond her home island.

Jemaine Clement also returns as Tamatoa, the giant treasure-hoarding crab from the Realm of Monsters, continuing one of the most memorable roles from the original film.

The live-action ‘Moana’ is scheduled for theatrical release on July 10, distributed by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures. It is described as the first live-action entry in the ‘Moana’ franchise and a new retelling of the original animated story.

The behind-the-scenes look at “Along The Way” offers fans an early insight into how the film is merging familiar characters, new performances, and updated music while staying true to the original journey of Moana and Maui.

Have something to add? Let us know in the comments!