Moana | "Official Trailer" | In Theaters July 10

Overview

A lively, music-driven trailer that sets up Moana’s hero’s journey. Her South Pacific island is threatened by a spreading darkness, and the ocean chooses Moana to fix it. She must find the demigod Maui, retrieve the stolen heart of Te Fiti, and restore balance. The trailer emphasizes themes of destiny, leadership, and self-identity, leaning into Moana’s determination and the film’s upbeat, adventurous tone.

Plot setup

• The island is threatened by a growing darkness.
• The ocean selects Moana as its champion and pushes her toward the adventure.
• Moana’s mission:
  1. Find the demigod Maui.
  2. Retrieve the stolen heart of Te Fiti.
  3. Restore balance to the islands.

Themes

• Destiny and calling
• Leadership and responsibility
• Self-identity (Moana insists she’s “not a princess” but “the daughter of the chief”)

Highlights and jokes

• Opening song: A catchy number (“I know a girl from an island”) establishes Moana’s bond with the sea and her community.
• The ocean literally selects Moana — playful, magical, and propulsive.

• Maui’s boastful introduction:

  “Demigod of the wind and sea — hero of men… women too.”

  • The line gets an amused correction, a small comedic beat that showcases his swagger.
  • Glimpses of Maui’s shapeshifting powers promise spectacle and humor.
  • Rallying lines and declarations:

    “I am Moana!” “Are you ready to be the hero? Let’s go save the world.”

• Small character-detail gags (e.g., Maui asking, “Is there something in my teeth?”) add charm and levity.

Overall impression

An energetic, funny, and heartfelt adventure teaser with strong musical moments, a brave young heroine, and a charismatic, comic-relief demigod. The trailer promises action, magic, and laughs while centering Moana’s growth as a leader.

Primary personalities featured

• Moana — the chosen young leader
• Maui — the boastful demigod
• The Ocean — a personified, guiding force
• Te Fiti — the island/heart that must be restored
• Moana’s family/chief and island chorus — the supporting community