LOS ANGELES — Disney's live-action remake of Moana earned approximately $43 million in its U.S. and Canada opening weekend, falling well short of initial projections that once reached $85 million before being revised downward. The international haul of $52 million brought the global debut to $95 million — less than half the film's $250 million production budget.
The opening marks a steep decline from the franchise's recent highs. The animated Moana 2 grossed $225 million domestically in 2024 on its way past $1 billion globally. The live-action entry received an A- CinemaScore from audiences but holds a 34% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Industry estimates suggest the film could lose roughly $100 million.
The release faces a crowded market alongside Toy Story 5 and Minions & Monsters, with Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey arriving July 17 and Spider-Man: Brand New Day following the next weekend.