New Films to Watch: July 2026, Vol. 1

Moana (Chinese title: 海洋奇缘：启航)

Mainland China release date: July 10, 2026

Director: Thomas Kail

Starring: Catherine Laga'aia, Dwayne Johnson, John Tui, Frankie Adams and Rena Owen

The live-action adaptation of Disney's animated favorite “Moana” opens in mainland China on July 10. Chosen by the ocean, Moana joins the legendary demigod Maui on an extraordinary adventure across a beautiful, mysterious sea to save her family and the world she loves. Nineteen-year-old newcomer Catherine Laga'aia, described as having a “miraculous singing voice,” plays Moana. Dwayne Johnson reprises Maui, whom he voiced in the animated film. The film opens in Japan on July 31. (Min Ihyo)

Kung Fu Soccer (Chinese title: 功夫女足)

Mainland China release date: July 11, 2026

Director: Stephen Chow

Starring: Zhang Xiaofei, Lay Zhang, Dilraba Dilmurat, Song Kang-ho, Zhao Lina, Xu Jiao, Ai Mi and Sisley Choi

Stephen Chow's eagerly awaited new film “Kung Fu Soccer” is set to open in mainland China on July 11. It follows the Emei women's football team as they combine football with kung fu. The action comedy recalls Chow's own classic “Shaolin Soccer” (2001), released 25 years earlier.

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