- Primary Subject: Early social media reactions to Disney's live-action Moana remake
- Key Update: Initial social media reactions from critics are finally out online.
- Status: Confirmed
- Last Verified: July 8, 2026
- Quick Answer: Critics are heavily divided: they praise newcomer Catherine Laga‘aia's charming lead performance, but criticize the movie's lack of originality and flat visual style.
The live-action remake of Moana will soon arrive in theaters, and critics have finally weighed in through their social media reactions. Is it worth watching according to them?
Ten years after the original animated film was released, Disney is releasing the live-action version of the modern classic, with Dwayne Johnson reprising the role of Maui and serving as one of the producers. Given that it will explore the same story and songs, fans are wondering whether this is still worth seeing on the big screen.
Is the Moana Live-Action Remake Worth Watching? Here's What the Critics Think
Following the world premiere event, critics who have seen the live-action remake of Moana were able to share their first reactions on social media and weigh in on whether the story is worth revisiting in this format.
The initial responses to the film are highly divided, mirroring the reception of many previous Disney live-action adaptations. While some critics and early viewers praise the performances, others heavily question the film's necessity and visual style.
If you loved the original and want a faithful, live-action celebration of that exact story powered by a great lead performance, early reactions suggest you'll find plenty to like, though it does very little to change the established Disney remake formula.
On the positive side, newcomer Catherine Laga‘aia receives glowing praise across the board. Reviewers call her charming, talented, and the true heart of the film, noting that she perfectly embodies the character of Moana. Furthermore, early viewers highlight that Laga‘aia and Dwayne Johnson share excellent on-screen chemistry, which helps carry the emotional weight of their journey.
For those who enjoy direct adaptations, many comment that it hits the exact same emotional beats, humor, and fun of the 2016 animated original, with Lin-Manuel Miranda’s iconic soundtrack remaining a massive high point that successfully delivers the Disney magic.
Conversely, many argue that because the original animated film is only a decade old, a beat-for-beat remake feels redundant and lacks a creative purpose. Several reviewers also criticize the visual style, noting that transitioning to a photorealistic, live-action environment stripped away the vibrant, colorful magic of the animation, leaving some scenes looking flat.
Additionally, critics point out that Johnson is heavily outshined by Laga‘aia, with a few reactions calling his performance a bit sleepy, while his massive, curly Maui wig continues to be a point of minor distraction and internet roasting.
You can check some of the first reaction posts on X here:
What to Expect in the Moana Live-Action Remake
In Moana, Disney’s live-action reimagining of the beloved animated adventure, Moana answers the Ocean’s call and, for the first time, voyages beyond the reef of her island of Motunui with the infamous demigod Maui on an unforgettable journey to restore prosperity to her people.
The main cast includes Catherine Lagaʻaia, Dwayne Johnson, John Tui, Frankie Adams, Rena Owen, and Jemaine Clement.
The film is directed by Thomas Kail; produced by Dwayne Johnson, Dany Garcia, Beau Flynn, Hiram Garcia, and Lin-Manuel Miranda; and executive produced by Kail, Scott Sheldon, Charles Newirth, and Auliʻi Cravalho.
It is arriving in theaters worldwide this week. It is also available in IMAX and other premium large formats.
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