Early reviews for Disney’s live-action Moana have arrived ahead of its theatrical release on July 10, 2026, and the initial critical response has been largely negative. Many reviewers are calling the film unnecessary and visually underwhelming, raising fresh questions about Disney’s strategy of remaking its recent animated hits.
The 2016 animated Moana was a major success for Walt Disney Animation Studios, earning strong reviews and solid box office returns while introducing audiences to Polynesian-inspired storytelling and memorable songs by Lin-Manuel Miranda. A sequel, Moana 2, followed in 2024. The live-action version marks the first time the 2016 story has been adapted for real actors.
Directed by Thomas Kail in his feature film debut, the new Moana stars newcomer Catherine Laga’aia in the title role and sees Dwayne Johnson reprise his voice performance as the demigod Maui. The film follows the same core story as the original: Moana leaves her island of Motunui to find Maui and restore balance to her people.
Early Critical Reception
According to early reactions compiled after the film’s premiere, the live-action Moana currently sits at a 34% score on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics have described it as a largely faithful but uninspired recreation that struggles to justify its existence so soon after the well-regarded animated original. MovieWeb
Several reviewers have singled out the photorealistic visual style as a major weakness. One critic wrote that the film “stands out as one of the ugliest films of the year,” arguing that the cinematography appears washed out and that vibrant sequences from the animated version lose their impact when translated into live-action CGI. Discussing Film
Others have echoed concerns about the film feeling like a shot-for-shot retelling with little new to offer. A Vulture review questioned the broader trend of these remakes, suggesting Disney is prioritizing revenue over fresh creative storytelling.
Dwayne Johnson’s Maui Draws Mixed Reactions
Johnson’s return as Maui has received particular scrutiny. While some praised his physical performance during the live-action version of the song “You’re Welcome,” several critics found the overall portrayal stiff and hampered by the character’s redesigned look, including prosthetics and a muscle suit that many felt fell into the uncanny valley. Consequence
One review from Consequence awarded the film a B- and noted that while Johnson brings moments of charisma, the project as a whole feels like “a rerun” rather than a meaningful new interpretation.
IndieWire similarly described the remake as “faithful to a fault” and “deathly afraid to explore unfamiliar waters,” calling it a competent but ultimately superfluous addition to Disney’s live-action catalog. IndieWire
Some Positive Notes Amid the Criticism
Not every early review has been entirely harsh. A few critics acknowledged that Catherine Laga’aia delivers a strong, warm performance as Moana and that the original songs remain effective. One outlet noted that the film turned out “better than expected” compared to some of Disney’s other recent live-action efforts, even while acknowledging it follows the animated version very closely. We Live Entertainment
Still, the dominant early consensus appears to be disappointment. Many writers have pointed out that the original Moana (2016) already felt fresh and culturally respectful, making the decision to remake it in photorealistic style only ten years later feel especially unnecessary to audiences and critics alike.
What This Means for Disney’s Remake Strategy
Moana joins a growing list of live-action Disney remakes that have faced backlash for prioritizing visual realism over the artistic strengths of the originals. With the film opening tomorrow, it remains to be seen how audiences will respond at the box office, but the early critical reaction suggests Disney may face continued scrutiny over its reliance on this format.
For now, many reviewers are advising viewers to revisit the 2016 animated version instead.
