Moana Live-Action Box Office Forecast Softens Ahead of Weekend Debut
Dwayne Johnson's return as Maui is now tracking for a domestic opening between $60 million and $65 million, a step down from earlier projections.
Disney’s live-action Moana is heading into its opening weekend with tempered expectations, now projected to earn between $60 million and $65 million domestically according to The Hollywood Reporter. This is a dial-back from last month’s tracking, which suggested the film could debut as high as $75 million.
How much is Moana projected to make?
The new forecast puts the film’s domestic weekend start in the $60-$65 million range. With a reported production budget of $250 million, the studio will need the film to perform as a family-friendly summer option for several weeks to turn a profit.
What is the film’s competition?
The remake enters a competitive landscape. Disney’s own Toy Story 5 has already crossed $800 million globally and is in its fourth weekend. The live-action Moana also follows closely on the heels of Moana 2, the animated sequel that became a smash hit in November 2024.
What has the response been?
Critical reception has been mixed. In his review for The Hollywood Reporter, chief film critic David Rooney wrote that “this charming new iteration stands confidently on its own.” Star Dwayne Johnson has addressed the timing of the remake, telling THR at the premiere, “To be honest with you, I never bought into this idea [of], ‘You have to wait 20 years. You have you wait 30 years. It’s too soon.’”
Sources
- Box Office Mojo
- Rotten Tomatoes
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is directing the live-action Moana?
The film is directed by Thomas Kail.
Who plays Moana in the live-action version?
Catherine Lagaʻaia stars as Moana in the new film.
When did the original animated Moana come out?
The original animated Moana from directors John Musker and Ron Clements was released in 2016.
What is the film's rating and runtime?
The live-action Moana is rated PG and has a runtime of 115 minutes.
More from The Screen Report
Chris Evans Reveals Marvel Pitched a Dozen Captain America Returns Before Doomsday
The star says Robert Downey Jr.'s comeback and Joe Russo's vision convinced him to finally reprise his role as Steve Rogers.
‘Transformers: The Movie’ Returns to Theaters in 4K This September with New Post-Credits Scene
The 1986 animated classic hits theaters on September 17 with an exclusive new sequence, part of Hasbro's 'Apology Tour' for Optimus Prime's death.
Dungeons & Dragons Sequel Script Exists, But Director Doubts It Will Ever Be Made
Co-director Jonathan Goldstein revealed at Comic-Con that a sequel script is finished, but financial hurdles from the first film's box office make its future uncertain.
Resident Evil Director Zach Cregger Defends Creative Liberties for 2026 Adaptation
The 'Weapons' director explains why his film is set in modern times with snow, not directly adapting the 1998 video game's setting.