Johnson highlights cultural impact over Moana box office

Actor Dwayne Johnson has addressed the mixed critical reception and underwhelming box office performance of Disney's live-action "Moana" remake, emphasizing the film's cultural significance as its most important achievement. In an interview with People magazine, Johnson reflected on the project's journey from its initial positive reviews to its subsequent critical drubbing and financial disappointment.

The film, released in theaters on July 10, 2026, stars Johnson reprising his role as the demigod Maui, with Catherine Laga'aia taking on the title role. Johnson recalled that the first two reviews were extremely positive, but the reception quickly shifted. He described adopting a philosophical perspective, stating that such turns are part of the business. He said he and his wife, Lauren Hashian, focused on the long-term view beyond the opening weekend's noise.

Financially, the film has struggled, grossing approximately $263 million worldwide against a reported production budget of $250 million, a performance that barely covers its costs. Critically, it holds a 31 percent score on Rotten Tomatoes, though it maintains a much higher 88 percent audience score. Some critics panned the...