Overview
- The live‑action Moana debuted to about $43 million in North America and roughly $95 million worldwide in its opening weekend, well below studio targets.
- Critics gave the film low marks while audiences were positive, with Rotten Tomatoes critics in the mid‑30s and an A‑ CinemaScore from ticket buyers.
- Industry reporting places the production budget near $250 million and marketing at roughly $120 million to $145 million, with Dwayne Johnson’s pay reported near $30 million raising the break‑even threshold sharply.
- Trade estimates say the movie is on track to lose at least $100 million to $125 million theatrically if total grosses finish around $250 million, though streaming, PVOD, merchandise and parks revenue could soften overall losses.
- The weak launch has intensified debate inside and outside Disney about the live‑action remake strategy, spotlighting timing, budget discipline and whether close sequencing to recent sequels reduces demand.