The live-action adaptation of the 2016 animated film Moana has drawn criticism for its execution and casting choices. Released in 2026 and directed by Broadway veteran Thomas Kail, the film stars Australian newcomer Catherine Laga’aia as Moana and features Dwayne Johnson reprising his role as the demigod Maui.

The original Moana was celebrated for its vibrant storytelling, themes of female empowerment, environmentalism, and its celebration of Polynesian culture. However, the latest version has been described as a formulaic remake that closely follows the plot, characters, and even dialogue of the original animation, resulting in a production perceived by some as uninspired.

The storyline remains centered on Moana’s journey to save her island, which is suffering from environmental decline. She enlists Maui’s help to restore balance by recovering his magical fishhook and confronting a volcanic entity threatening their world. Despite the familiar adventure setup, many viewers found the new film lacking the energy and warmth of its predecessor.

Much of the criticism has focused on Johnson’s portrayal of Maui. At 54, Johnson’s age and physical presentation have been noted as discordant with the youthful, rotund depiction in the animated version. The actor performs in a costume heavily reliant on prosthetics and visual effects, which some audiences found distracting. His performance has been characterized as restrained and lacking the goofiness and charm that defined the original character. Johnson’s signature line, “It’s Maui time!” was singled out as a particularly ineffective moment.

Laga’aia’s portrayal of Moana has garnered a mixed response as well. While her performance is considered competent, critics argue that the role demands a greater depth and charisma than the young actress was able to deliver. The film’s extensive use of computer-generated imagery and reliance on artificial settings have also been noted as detracting from its visual appeal.

Musical elements from Lin-Manuel Miranda, including the standout number “How Far I’ll Go,” continue to be recognized for their catchy quality, though they have not managed to fully uplift the overall experience.

Ultimately, this iteration of Moana has divided audiences and critics who expected a fresh take rather than a near carbon copy of a beloved original. The film’s adherence to the Disney live-action remake template has been cited as limiting, with some suggesting a more inventive approach could have better honored the source material’s spirit. The film carries a PG rating and runs for 115 minutes.