Disney's Moana franchise, built on two animated features and a catalogue of songs that have lodged themselves firmly in popular culture, is now heading toward its next chapter: a live-action theatrical remake scheduled for July 10, 2026. Both existing animated films are currently available on Disney+ across major English-speaking markets, and a third installment may already be in early development, according to industry insiders.
Where to Watch the Moana Films Right Now
For viewers in the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada, access to the Moana films is straightforward. Both the original 2016 animated feature and its 2024 sequel, Moana 2, are available on Disney+ in all three markets. The original follows the title character as she sets out across the Pacific to find the demigod Maui and undo a curse that threatens her island home - a premise that blends Polynesian mythology with a coming-of-age story about identity and responsibility. The sequel continues that world-building.
Streaming rights, however, are not uniform across all regions. Platform licensing agreements mean that availability in other countries may differ, and it is always worth checking local catalogues before subscribing to any service.
Using a VPN to Access Content Across Borders
For viewers outside markets where the Moana films are available on Disney+, a Virtual Private Network can offer a practical solution. A VPN works by encrypting a user's internet traffic and routing it through servers located in other countries, effectively presenting that user's connection as originating from a different region. This allows access to content catalogues that would otherwise be restricted based on geographic location.
Beyond content access, VPNs carry genuine privacy and security value. Encrypting your connection protects data from interception on unsecured public networks, masks your IP address from third-party trackers, and adds a meaningful layer of anonymity to ordinary browsing. The technology is particularly relevant for users in regions with restrictive internet policies, but it is broadly useful for anyone seeking more control over their digital footprint.
Two services worth considering:
- ExpressVPN - Consistently fast connection speeds and a large global server network, making it a reliable choice for streaming in particular.
- VeePN - A more budget-conscious alternative with broad server coverage and dependable everyday performance.
Other well-regarded options include NordVPN, known for strong security features; Surfshark, which allows unlimited simultaneous device connections; CyberGhost, which offers a large server network with streaming-optimized capabilities; and Private Internet Access, which emphasizes privacy as a core offering. The right choice depends on individual priorities - whether that is raw speed, pricing, privacy guarantees, or the number of devices a subscription covers.
What Comes Next for the Franchise
The live-action remake of the original Moana film arrives in theaters on July 10, 2026. Based on the timelines Disney has followed with other recent productions - including the shift from theatrical to streaming for comparable titles - a Disney+ debut can reasonably be expected roughly three to four months after the theatrical premiere. No official streaming date has been announced.
As for a third animated film, Disney has made no formal announcement. Industry scooper Daniel Richtman has suggested that development on Moana 3 is already underway, though Disney has not confirmed or commented on that claim. Given the commercial success of Moana 2 and the sustained audience affection for the franchise, further expansion would be consistent with Disney's broader strategy of developing proven animated properties across multiple formats.
For now, both animated films remain accessible and well worth the time - particularly for viewers new to the franchise who want to catch up before the live-action release arrives next summer.
