Overview
- The live-action Moana opened July 10 and has grossed roughly $263–265 million worldwide against reported production costs near $250 million, leaving industry estimates that the theatrical run will produce at least a $100 million loss after marketing costs are included.
- Professional critics have been broadly negative, giving the film about a 31% score on Rotten Tomatoes, while general audiences rate it far higher at roughly an 88% audience score.
- Dwayne Johnson told People that he has accepted the mixed reviews, saying “If you love it, great. If you don’t, no problem,” and he emphasized that the project’s key achievement was visible Polynesian representation for Pacific Islander families.
- On August 5 Disney CEO Josh D’Amaro called the movie’s box office “soft” and said the company expects franchise films to drive value across Disney+ streaming, merchandise sales and theme parks rather than rely solely on theatrical profit.
- Reports say an animated Moana 3 is in development but any future live-action sequels have not been confirmed and remain uncertain.