Thomas Kail Addresses Criticism of Live-Action Moana

Thomas Kail's live-action adaptation of Moana has sparked mixed reactions since its release on July 11. While some viewers feel it closely mirrors the animated classic, Kail defends his approach, stating that the film introduces new scenes and dialogues while remaining true to the original story. In an interview, he expressed his commitment to honoring the narrative and characters, emphasizing that the film is not a mere copy. With a cast that includes Dwayne Johnson and Catherine Laga'aia, the film follows Moana's quest to restore her island's heart. Critics have given it a moderate rating, praising its fidelity to the original tale. Discover more about Kail's insights and the film's reception.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 11, 2026, 10:25 IST

Live-Action Moana Hits Theaters

On July 11, Thomas Kail’s live-action adaptation of Moana (2026), featuring Dwayne Johnson and Catherine Laga'aia, premiered in theaters globally. The film received a mixed reception, with numerous viewers claiming it closely resembled the animated classic released ten years prior. In response to the backlash, Kail emphasized his intention to honor the original narrative and characters while crafting the remake. He clarified that the new film is not a direct replication, incorporating unique scenes, dialogues, humor, and alterations in the storyline.

Kail Responds to Feedback

Moana Director Thomas Kail REACTS To Criticism

In a discussion with Variety, Kail remarked, "If you're creating a film titled Moana that strays from the original story, that would be a misstep. We aimed to respect the narrative and its characters. It remains intact." He noted that his background in theater, where revivals are prevalent, inspired him to introduce a fresh perspective to a familiar tale. "Our adaptation includes entirely new scenes, different characters delivering lines, and a varied sequence of events. It does not mirror the original script in any aspect. While it retains the same story and characters, it is not merely a connection between this and the original," he elaborated.

Kail's Perspective on Reviews

When questioned about his approach to reviews, Kail shared that he prefers to gauge the overall sentiment rather than delve into specifics. With years of experience in the industry, he has learned that understanding the broader conversation surrounding his work suffices. His primary goal is to reach as many viewers as possible, and he relishes the opportunity to create engaging content. Kail acknowledged that while reviews can help draw audiences, there are numerous other avenues to connect with viewers.

About the Film

More About Moana

The cast also includes Frankie Adams, John Tui, and Rena Owen in significant roles. The storyline follows Moana as she embarks on a perilous quest beyond Motunui to locate the demigod Maui. Her objective is to restore the stolen heart of Te Fiti and revive her island's prosperity. Our in-house critic rated the film 3 out of 5 stars, noting, "One of the strengths is that, unlike some recent adaptations of classic stories, Disney does not attempt to unnecessarily modify Moana. The remake remains true to the original narrative and its cultural significance."