Disney's live-action 'Moana' remake gets damning reviews: 'Soulless' and 'pointless'

Key Points:

• Disney's live-action remake of Moana, starring Dwayne Johnson and Catherine Laga'aia, is set to release on July 9 but has received largely negative reviews, holding a 36% critics' score on Rotten Tomatoes compared to the original's 95%.
• Critics argue the remake is unnecessary and lacks the original's heart and imagination, describing it as "soulless," "lifeless," and a "cynical cash grab," with many questioning the purpose of revisiting the film so soon.
• The heavy use of CGI and green-screen effects has been widely criticized for creating an uncanny and artificial feel, with Johnson's portrayal of Maui also drawing mockery for failing to capture the character's energy.
• Some reviewers offered a more positive perspective, praising the visuals and performances, and considering it entertaining family fare, though acknowledging it doesn't surpass the original.
• The remake's commercial success remains uncertain, as Disney's live-action remakes often perform better with audiences than critics; Moana will need to approach $900 million globally to match the 2016 animated film's box office.