REVIEW: “Moana” (2026)

(Source: IMDb) 

Disney’s apparently never-ending, live-action slate continues this summer with a remake of one of their most recent and beloved hits. Like 2012’s The Amazing Spider-Man, the 2026 version of Moana arrives nearly ten years after its predecessor first premiered in theaters. Brought to life by stage director Thomas Kail (known for Hamilton), this flick certainly benefits from cultural representation. But it’s basically the same movie as its animated 2016 counterpart. 

This anticipated tentpole has already been getting negative reviews. It’s basically a shot-for-shot remake, with nothing really surprising or very exciting, except maybe a few small moments and more intense action that slightly differentiate it from the animated blockbuster. I stand by my belief that, when Disney remakes their animated films, they do much better when they do something new and unpredictable (which is why adaptations like Cinderella and The Jungle Book worked so well). Even last year’s Snow White, as disappointing as it was, took a few unexpected turns that made it stand out in noteworthy ways, but only just. 

That being said, there are only a few other things in this Moana that do work. These include the film’s production design, which highlights Polynesian culture in all of its color and customs. The work of the extras is noteworthy; they’re all great singers and dancers. Moana’s relationship with her grandmother remains the heart of this story, giving this film some emotional resonance. That translates just as well to the story’s thematic underline of the things we do for the world, for better or worse, as well as helping to save it by righting the wrongs done to it (which is a noble pursuit). The reprise of the now-iconic “How Far I’ll Go,” during a critical moment, still brings me to tears. Plus, the combination of 2D/3D animation in “You’re Welcome” is fun. And it’s nice that the visual effects artists retained that element in Maui’s tattoos, with some zoetrope effects for good measure. (I also realized, as I watched this, that one climactic moment, whether intentionally or not, recalls the parting of the Red Sea in Exodus. Intriguing.) 

Just as Gerard Butler reprised his voice over role as Stoic in flesh and blood for last year’s How to Train Your Dragon remake, so here does Dwayne Johnson bring the demigod Maui to life. Although, it is kind of weird seeing the Rock with long, wavy hair. The charisma is still there, it just doesn’t translate as well, nor feel as lively, in reality. (The latter is probably the most ironic element when it comes to translating animated films into real ones.) Lead actress Catherine Laga’aia, on the other hand, has something in common with her predecessor Auli’i Cravalho. Both made their film debuts as the titular tribal princess-turned-way finder (although, Cravalho only did it in voice). And she undoubtedly was a worthy pick for the role, all in voice, look, and personality. Both actresses even share a duet for a new song written by the original’s co-songwriter Lin-Manuel Miranda, who also gives Johnson a little something to do. Jermaine Clement is the only other actor (besides Johnson) to reprise his role from the 2016 flick, as the voice of giant crab Tomatoa. Although, his look here doesn’t feel as charismatic or threatening. 

Whether or not Disney stops remaking their animated classics (and it seems they won’t be anytime soon), they should at least take risks with their live-action slate and surprise audiences with twists and turns instead of going through the motions and sticking to the same waves, if you will. Granted, the fact that last year’s Dragon managed to work (courtesy the same team that made the original) is an exception. But it doesn’t always turn out that way. My advice to the studio: take advantage of the quieter moments. Embrace them, trust them, and expand on those. And don’t be afraid to take risks, just as long as you honor and respect what came before. And this Moana does that, don't get me wrong. I just think it would’ve been more engaging and exciting if they took some cues from what they did in the animated sequel from 2024. That would've been an ocean to explore. (Well, we may be getting a third animated Moana. So, there's that. You're welcome.)