A real hero in the cartoon world

Disney has expanded its successful franchise of live-action remakes with Moana, the animated film that first captivated audiences ten years ago. Now, the story of the determined protagonist Moana has been transformed into a computer-generated live-action version, marking the 25th such remake by the studio. The new adaptation, which became available online yesterday at 5:57 PM, aims to bring the original tale of courage and determination to life using advanced digital effects. The film opens with Moana confidently setting sail on the ocean, determined to reclaim the seafaring traditions of her ancestors. With ropes in hand and sails unfurled, she sings along to the song “I’m Ready.” However, this scene, while visually striking, appears somewhat polished—perhaps due to the perfectly tailored costume of the title character or the island landscape that subtly hints at the use of green screen technology. This visual approach has drawn criticism online, with viewers questioning why the live-action version seems more animated than the original. Some comments suggest that Disney might have used artificial intelligence to create the remake, while others note that the vibrant visuals of characters, landscapes, and Polynesian mythology were among the original's most praised aspects. Criticism of excessive CGI use in live-action remakes is not new. Similar concerns were raised about films such as Snow White (2025) and Aladdin (2019). Despite these criticisms, Disney continues to invest in remaking its classic animations, a strategy that has proven profitable over the years. Recent successes include Lilo & Stitch (2025), which became the third-highest-grossing live-action remake in history. With Moana, Disney is tackling another beloved property that originally stood out for its departure from traditional princess narratives. Unlike typical Disney stories centered around romantic entanglements, Moana focuses on the dynamic relationship between the protagonist and the egotistical demigod Maui. This storyline was well-received because it presented a strong, independent female lead who embarks on an adventure rather than waiting for rescue. In the live-action version, the story remains largely faithful to the original. It follows Moana, played by Australian actress Catherine Lagaʻaia, who is just 19 years old. She portrays the 16-year-old daughter of the chief of the South Pacific island of Motunui, living in a peaceful village community. When a mysterious famine threatens the island, Moana sets off on a journey to seek help from Maui, played by Dwayne Johnson, a demigod and shape-shifter. To cast the role of Moana, thousands of applicants were considered. Lagaʻaia impressed director Thomas Kail quickly, showcasing her ability to portray a character full of optimism and inner strength. Even in the live-action version, Moana faces challenges with unwavering determination. According to Dwayne Johnson, who plays Maui, “Our heroine is not a princess. She’s a warrior.” Together, Moana and Maui embark on a quest to find a mystical relic—the heart of the nature goddess Te Fiti—to save their people. Their journey leads them back to ancient traditions and explores the vast oceans. The film brings together elements of Polynesian culture, mythology, and storytelling, maintaining the essence of the original while adapting it to a new format. As the release date approaches, anticipation builds among fans and critics alike, eager to see how this latest addition to Disney's live-action lineup will be received.