Disney has released a live-action adaptation of its 2016 animated hit, Moana, marking the latest entry in the studio’s ongoing practice of remaking its classic films. Directed by Thomas Kail and starring Catherine Laga’aia as Moana alongside Dwayne Johnson reprising his role as the demigod Maui, the film retells the story of a Polynesian chief’s daughter who embarks on a daring ocean voyage to restore the heart of the goddess Te Fiti and save her island.
The new version follows the original almost exactly, replicating scenes, dialogue, and musical elements with little alteration. A blend of live-action and CGI creates the familiar characters, including the comedic piglet and chicken, although some critics note a lack of novelty or deeper creative reinvention. Laga’aia’s performance has been highlighted as engaging and charismatic, despite adopting an American accent rather than reflecting her Australian background. Johnson’s return as Maui brings a similar dynamic to prior portrayals, supported by advanced animation effects seen in the moving tattoos on his character.
While visually polished and technically accomplished, the remake has drawn mixed reactions. The original film was widely praised for its groundbreaking animation, storytelling, and cultural representation of Polynesian heritage. In contrast, the live-action adaptation is often viewed as a largely commercial endeavor, with critics questioning its purpose beyond generating revenue. Some commentators suggest the project aligns with broader industry trends of capitalizing on nostalgia and recognizable intellectual property rather than pursuing novel artistic expression.
Alongside Moana, several other films have premiered recently. “Evil Dead Burn,” directed by Sebastien Vanicek, is the latest installment in the long-running horror franchise originating from “The Evil Dead” (1981). It delivers intense, graphic violence centered on a cursed family and their haunted house, with limited focus on plot and an emphasis on shock value through gore and mayhem.
“Rosebush Pruning” is a dark psychosexual satire exploring the dysfunctional relationships of a wealthy family living in Catalonia. Featuring Tracy Letts as a blind patriarch and Pamela Anderson as the deceased matriarch, the film delves into themes of excess, entitlement, and hidden secrets. Despite stylish production values and a notable ensemble cast—including Callum Turner, Riley Keough, Lukas Gage, and Jamie Bell—critics find the narrative lacking in sharpness and depth, drawing comparisons to television dramas about fractured family dynamics but without their narrative strength.
On a lighter note, Aardman Animations has re-released two classic claymation shorts, “A Grand Day Out” (1989) and “The Wrong Trousers” (1993), celebrating 50 years since the studio’s founding. These beloved Wallace and Gromit films enjoy enduring popularity in England and remain exemplars of clever, charming animation. Their return to cinemas offers a nostalgic alternative amid the summer’s new releases.
All of these films, spanning genres from family adventure to horror and satire, became available in cinemas this week.