Moana (2026) Review: A Faithful Remake Struggling To Justify Itself

This Moana review looks at Disney's live-action remake of its 2016 animated hit, directed by Thomas Kail. It is a fantasy musical built for families, and it arrives with a fresh lead and a very familiar map. The big question is whether it needed to exist at all.

Moana Review: The Story So Far (No Spoilers)

The Moana plot will feel familiar to anyone who knows the animated film. Moana lives on the island of Motunui and feels the pull of the ocean. For the first time, she voyages beyond the reef with the infamous demigod Maui, played by Dwayne Johnson, to restore prosperity to her people.

The screenplay comes from Jared Bush and Dana Ledoux Miller. Reports describe it as a close, often line-by-line retelling of the original. That choice shapes almost everything about how the film plays.

It is a family adventure with comedy and songs, rated PG in the US. Disney lists it as live-action action-adventure, and the tone stays light and friendly.

What Works in Moana

The strongest asset is its heart. The core story of a young woman choosing the sea over safety still has real warmth, and the songs give it a lift whenever the pacing slows.

Several critics have called it one of Disney's better live-action remakes, even while scores stay low. That is faint praise, but it suggests the film avoids the worst traps of the format.

• A clear, easy-to-follow quest that younger viewers can enjoy.

• A musical structure that keeps energy up between set pieces.

• A sense of place that draws on the Pacific setting, with New Zealand listed as a country of origin on IMDb.

Moana Cast and Performances

The Moana cast is led by newcomer Catherine Laga'aia in the title role. Her performance is the most consistently praised element in the reviews I found. She carries the film with the right mix of stubbornness and wonder.

Dwayne Johnson returns to the Maui role in live action, a part he voiced in the original. He brings his usual charm, and the story leans on his comic timing.

The supporting players include:

• John Tui as Chief Tui

• Frankie Adams as Sina

• Rena Owen as Gramma Tala

• Jemaine Clement as Tamatoa

Clement, who is cast as the crab Tamatoa, is a fun piece of casting for anyone who remembers the original.

Where Moana Stumbles

The main problem is simple: the film is often a near copy of the animated version. When a remake changes so little, viewers are left asking what it adds. Critics also questioned making it only ten years after the original.

Critical numbers are weak. Reported Rotten Tomatoes scores sit in the 30s, and a later report put Metacritic at 42 and IMDb at 5.6 out of 10. I could not confirm one current figure, so treat those as a snapshot.

The move from animation to live action can also flatten the magic. Some of the original's playful energy tends to get lost when the world has to look photographic.

Is Moana Worth Watching?

Yes, if you are a fan of the story or have kids to bring along, though it is not essential. The film works as a pleasant family outing, and Laga'aia gives it a real reason to exist.

If you already know the original well, you may find little new here. The film plays as a safe retelling rather than a bold reinvention. That is where the lukewarm reception comes from.

If you want something with more surprise, our Family movie reviews have other options. For a lighter laugh, try our Comedy movie reviews. You can also see the film's Wikipedia page) for background.

The Moana release date in US theaters is July 10, 2026, if you plan a trip to the cinema.

Who Will Enjoy Moana

• Families with younger children who want a familiar, gentle musical adventure.

• Fans of the 2016 original who are curious to see it in live action.

• Viewers who want to see Catherine Laga'aia's first major lead role.

If that sounds like you, this Moana review should help you decide: go in expecting comfort, not surprise.