Upcoming Live-Action Disney Remakes: Moana, Lilo & Stitch, and What Fans Should Watch Next

Disney’s live-action remake era is still going strong, and two of the biggest names leading the conversation are Moana and Lilo & Stitch. These movies are more than simple retellings. They bring beloved animated stories into a new format for a new generation, while also bringing back characters that families, collectors, and Disney fans already love.

As of June 2026, one important update is that Lilo & Stitch is no longer upcoming. The live-action movie was released in theaters on May 23, 2025, while Moana is the next major Disney live-action remake still ahead, scheduled for July 10, 2026.

Why Disney Live-Action Remakes Are So Popular

Disney live-action remakes work because they mix nostalgia with fresh visuals. Parents who grew up watching the animated classics can now share these stories with their kids in a new way. At the same time, younger audiences get to meet characters like Moana, Maui, Lilo, and Stitch through modern effects, real-world locations, and updated performances.

For collectors, these movies also create excitement around toys, plushies, trading cards, figures, and limited-edition merchandise. When a Disney remake arrives, fan interest usually rises again around the original animated movie, the characters, and collectible items connected to the franchise.

Live-Action Moana: Coming July 10, 2026

The live-action Moana is one of Disney’s most anticipated remakes. The film is scheduled to release in U.S. theaters on July 10, 2026. Disney lists the movie as rated PG, directed by Thomas Kail, and starring Catherine Lagaʻaia as Moana and Dwayne Johnson returning as Maui.

The original animated Moana became a favorite because of its adventurous story, powerful music, and emotional message about identity, family, and courage. The live-action version is expected to bring the ocean, island setting, and legendary journey to life in a more realistic cinematic style.

Why fans are excited for Moana

Fans are especially interested in seeing how Disney will recreate the ocean, Maui’s transformations, Hei Hei, Pua, and the world of Motunui in live action. Dwayne Johnson returning as Maui also gives the remake a strong connection to the original animated film.

For families, this movie is likely to become one of the biggest Disney releases of summer 2026. For collectors, it may also increase demand for Moana dolls, Maui figures, plush toys, and Disney island-adventure themed items.

Live-Action Lilo & Stitch: Already Released, But Still Trending

The live-action Lilo & Stitch released on May 23, 2025. Disney lists the movie as a PG-rated action-adventure, comedy, family, live-action, and science-fiction film directed by Dean Fleischer Camp. The cast includes Maia Kealoha, Sydney Elizebeth Agudong, Chris Sanders, Tia Carrere, Courtney B. Vance, Zach Galifianakis, and others.

The remake brought Stitch back into the spotlight in a huge way. Disney announced that Lilo & Stitch 2 is officially in development on June 26, 2025, also known by fans as “626 Day,” a reference to Stitch’s experiment number.

Why Stitch remains so popular

Stitch is one of Disney’s most collectible characters because he is cute, chaotic, funny, and instantly recognizable. The live-action movie helped introduce him to a new generation while also bringing back longtime fans of the 2002 animated classic.

Because of this, Stitch plushies, figures, backpacks, toys, and Disney collectibles continue to be popular with kids and adult collectors alike.

What These Remakes Mean for Disney Collectors

Live-action Disney remakes often bring a wave of renewed interest in older characters. When a new movie comes out, fans start searching for both new and vintage items connected to the franchise.

Collectors may want to watch for:

Moana collectibles: Moana dolls, Maui figures, Pua plush, Hei Hei toys, ocean-themed Disney items, and movie tie-in merchandise.

Lilo & Stitch collectibles: Stitch plushies, Angel items, Lilo figures, Disney Store exclusives, tropical-themed Stitch accessories, and limited-edition remake merchandise.

These items can become especially popular around movie release dates, holidays, birthdays, and major Disney announcements.

Are Disney Live-Action Remakes Worth Watching?

For many families, yes. These remakes give familiar stories a fresh look while keeping the characters people already love. Some fans prefer the animated originals, while others enjoy seeing a new version on the big screen. Either way, movies like Moana and Lilo & Stitch prove that Disney characters can stay popular across generations.

Final Thoughts

Disney’s live-action remake lineup continues to bring classic animated stories back into the spotlight. Moana is the next major remake to watch, arriving in theaters on July 10, 2026, while Lilo & Stitch has already become a major live-action success with a sequel now in development.

For Disney fans, families, and collectors, this is a great time to revisit the original movies, enjoy the new versions, and keep an eye out for collectible toys and merchandise inspired by these beloved characters.