Moana Live-Action Earns $4.5M in Thursday Previews

Disney's live-action adaptation of 'Moana' generated $4.5 million in ticket sales from Thursday preview screenings, which began at 2 PM. This figure represents the film's initial box office performance before its official wide release. As of the preview showings, an audience score has not yet been released.

Critical reception for the live-action 'Moana' has been mixed, with the film holding a 35% rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on critic reviews. This score positions it below other recent live-action Disney remakes, such as 'Snow White,' which garnered a 39% critic score, and 'Aladdin,' starring Will Smith, which achieved 57%. The film is directed by Thomas Kail.

The critical consensus highlights a particular point of contention regarding Maui's hook, a significant prop from the original animated film. The current critical reception suggests that the live-action version is facing challenges in resonating with reviewers compared to its animated predecessor and some other Disney remakes.