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Moana Live-Action Stumbles: Critics Pan Reviews & Box Office
10 Jul
Summary
- Moana live-action remake garners some of the worst career reviews for Dwayne Johnson.
- The film is projected for a disappointing $40m-$60m opening weekend in the US.
- Critics highlight Johnson's repetitive performance and the awkward live-action dynamic.
Disney's live-action adaptation of Moana is meeting harsh criticism and a lackluster box office debut. Dwayne Johnson, reprising his role as the demigod Maui, is facing some of the most negative reviews of his career. Critics have described his performance as repetitive and uninspired, particularly noting a "flat" wig and "wearisome mannerisms." The film's production budget stands at $250 million, but it is anticipated to earn between $40 million and $60 million in its opening weekend in the United States.
Reviewers have also expressed discomfort with the live-action depiction of the relationship between Maui and the teenage Moana, noting an "unignorable" dynamic. This comes after Johnson's attempt at more serious roles, like in "The Smashing Machine," also failed to achieve commercial or critical success. The projected box office performance places "Moana" alongside other underperforming live-action Disney remakes such as "Snow White" and "Dumbo."
