Disney's live-action remake of 'Moana' is set to hit theaters on July 10, 2026, amid a mix of critical and commercial uncertainty. The film, which follows the 2016 animated original and its 2024 sequel, has received a 39% Rotten Tomatoes score, placing it among Disney's lowest-rated adaptations. Industry projections suggest the film could debut between $40 million and $60 million domestically, raising concerns about its financial viability given its $250 million production budget.
Critics have been particularly harsh, with reviews describing the film as a 'money grab' and questioning its necessity so soon after the original. The San Francisco Chronicle called the remake 'lifeless' compared to the animated version, while The Daily Telegraph (U.K.) criticized its visual execution, suggesting it felt 'artificially generated.' Despite the backlash, the film's cast, including Dwayne Johnson reprising his role as Maui, has defended its cultural significance, emphasizing its global appeal.
The remake is part of Disney's ongoing strategy of reimagining animated classics in live-action, though the short timeframe between the original 'Moana' and this adaptation has drawn scrutiny. The 2016 film grossed $643 million worldwide and remains the most-watched movie on Disney+, with over 1.5 billion hours of viewing. Its 2024 sequel also surpassed $1 billion in global earnings, underscoring the franchise's popularity.
The film's release coincides with a competitive summer lineup, including 'Toy Story 5' and 'Minions & Monsters,' which have seen varying box office performances. Disney's recent live-action remakes, such as 'Snow White,' have also faced criticism and underwhelming box office returns, adding to the pressure on 'Moana.'