Jakarta, ThedailyID — Disney’s Moana (2026) has returned as a live-action remake of the beloved 2016 animated film. However, many critics say it lacks the magic that made the original a global favorite.
The film premiered on July 8, 2026, with Dwayne Johnson returning as Maui. Meanwhile, newcomer Catherine Laga’aia takes on the role of Moana.
Although the remake closely follows the original story, critics gave it poor reviews. As of July 10, it held a 36% rating on Rotten Tomatoes from 110 critics.
Many reviewers argued that director Thomas Kail added little that felt fresh. Instead, they said the live-action format weakened the original’s visual creativity.
“The animated Moana sparkled through its breathtaking visuals,” wrote Nikki Gemmell of The Australian. “This version never captures that same magic.”
Likewise, G. Allen Johnson of the San Francisco Chronicle questioned why Disney made the remake.
“The obvious reason is profit,” he wrote. “Yet the film feels flatter than the animated original.”
Similarly, critic Alissa Wilkinson said the filmmakers chose a more literal visual style. As a result, much of the original’s imagination disappeared.
Several reviewers also argued that Disney copied the animated film too closely. Consequently, the remake offers few new ideas.
“If the original didn’t exist, this film might have felt charming,” wrote Danny Leigh of the Financial Times. “Instead, it becomes an unnecessary copy.”
Meanwhile, some critics felt the remake failed to showcase Polynesian culture with the same creativity as the animated version.
Aparita Bhandari of The Globe and Mail said the live-action film reduced the rich visual storytelling behind Polynesian mythology.
Despite the criticism, not every review was negative. Several critics praised the performances and memorable soundtrack.
“The story still works, and the songs remain wonderful,” wrote Josh Bell of Tom’s Guide. “However, this version never reaches the emotional highs of the original.”
Patrick McDonald of HollywoodChicago.com also praised Catherine Laga’aia. He said she brings warmth and courage to Moana despite revisiting a familiar story.
Overall, Moana (2026) follows the same adventure as the animated classic. Moana sails across the ocean with Maui to save her island and restore balance to nature.
The film marks Thomas Kail’s feature directorial debut. Meanwhile, Jared Bush and Dana Ledoux Miller wrote the screenplay.
Disney released the live-action remake in Indonesian cinemas on July 8, 2026.
