Live-Action ‘Moana’ Release Date and Where to Watch It on Digital and Blu-Ray

Disney’s live-action adaptation of its cherished animated musical faced a challenging theatrical journey this summer, sparking much discussion despite a mixed critical reception. Nearly two months after its initial release, the studio is gearing up to transition this wayfinding adventure into its next phase of distribution.

The film’s theatrical run grossed over $300 million globally, a respectable yet underwhelming figure considering its positioning as one of Disney’s major releases of the season. Directed by ‘Hamilton’ filmmaker Thomas Kail, the remake features newcomer Catherine Lagaʻaia in the titular role, while Dwayne Johnson transitions from voice acting to live action as the shape-shifting demigod Maui.

Disney has officially announced that ‘Moana‘ will be available for purchase or rental on digital platforms such as Prime Video, Apple TV, and Fandango starting September 8, followed by a physical release on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, and DVD on October 6. This home release comes less than two months after the film’s theatrical debut on July 10, reflecting a standard turnaround for a major studio release.

Joining Johnson and Lagaʻaia in the film’s principal cast are Rena Owen as Gramma Tala, John Tui as Chief Tui, and Frankie Adams as Sina, with Jemaine Clement also part of the ensemble. The film adapts the story from the 2016 animated original, showcasing a young wayfinder answering the ocean’s call to save her people, now brought to life through live-action performance and practical filmmaking.

The upcoming digital and physical editions will include a robust selection of bonus material. Among the extras is a sing-along version of the film, along with behind-the-scenes content that explores Lagaʻaia’s casting process, the creation of the village of Motunui, choreographer Tiana Nonosina Liufau’s contributions, and costume designer Liz McGregor’s impact on the film’s visual style.

Additionally, Disney will release a limited-edition 4K UHD SteelBook on October 6, featuring Lagaʻaia and Johnson as Moana and Maui alongside her animal companions Pua and Heihei on the collectible packaging. For fans looking to enhance their collection, a three-film bundle that includes the live-action remake, the original 2016 animated film, and the upcoming billion-dollar hit ‘Moana 2’ will be available digitally starting September 8, with a DVD bundle following on October 6.

The film’s theatrical release received a notably mixed response from critics and audiences alike. While it holds a 32% critic score on Rotten Tomatoes and a 42 out of 100 on Metacritic, audiences have responded more favorably, awarding it an 88% audience score and an A- CinemaScore rating.

Johnson has addressed the mixed critical reception directly, acknowledging the divide without concern. “That’s just the way it goes because we’re in this business… If you love it, great. If you don’t, no problem,” he stated.

For a franchise that has shown remarkable resilience across both animated and live-action formats, the upcoming home release offers ‘Moana’ an opportunity to reach an even broader audience beyond its theatrical run. With bonus content tailored for dedicated fans, Disney seems confident that the film’s home video rollout will resonate, even if its box office performance fell short of expectations.

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