Disney Splits The Fanbase With Dwayne Johnson’s Live-Action Maui First Look Photos

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Disney has given fans a first look at Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson as Maui in the upcoming 2026 live-action remake of Moana, and the response has been mixed. The movie, based on the popular 2016 animated film, will see Johnson return to his role as the demigod. While many are excited about Catherine Laga’aia as Moana, some fans have expressed concerns about the live-action design of Maui and how it will translate to the screen.

In the story of Moana, Maui is a demigod based on Polynesian legends. He’s known for his incredibly strong physique, detailed tattoos, long, unkempt hair, and a bold, confident personality – everything you’d expect from a heroic figure.

Dwayne Johnson returned as Maui in the live-action movie, but his performance didn’t quite meet what fans hoped for after seeing the trailer. A lot of the disappointment came down to how the character looked, which sparked a divided reaction online.

Fans have been primarily critical of Maui’s wig in the live-action Moana film. Many found it strange to see him with hair, and described the wig as messy and unrealistic. One fan specifically noted it didn’t look good on him.

It’s understandable why people are critical, as Maui’s long hair was a beloved part of his character. Many felt the wig used didn’t capture the impressive, flowing hairstyle that was so well done in the animated movie, Moana.

Some fans have also pointed out that Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson didn’t quite match the incredibly large and muscular build of Maui as seen in the original animated movie. One fan jokingly said it looked like ‘The Rock was just dressing up as Maui’.

Many fans were disappointed with the live-action version of Maui, feeling his design didn’t capture his distinctive look from the animated film and didn’t feel as impressive. One fan explained this contributed to the general feeling that the remake wasn’t needed, stating that some animated movies are better left untouched.

Even though many people strongly disliked the design of Maui in the live-action movie, some fans actually enjoyed Dwayne Johnson’s performance as the character. One fan confessed they were worried about the 2026 Disney film, but ended up admitting that Dwayne ‘Rock’ Johnson did a good job with the role.

Okay, so the first look at the live-action Moana isn’t perfect – the design feels a little off, and I think they could still refine things. But honestly, a lot of other fans – and I’m starting to agree – think it’s going to be a really enjoyable movie, especially with Dwayne Johnson involved. He just brings so much to the screen!

The upcoming live-action version of Moana will largely retell the story of the animated film, with Moana and Maui joining forces on a voyage to return the heart of Te Fiti.

In Disney’s Moana, Catherine Laga’aia joins Dwayne Johnson as the voice of the beloved Disney Princess.

Moana is set to premiere in theaters on July 10. 

There Is Still Time for Disney To Fix Maui’s Design

It’s easy to see why fans are upset with the design of Maui in the upcoming live-action Moana movie. They feel it doesn’t capture the powerful and charismatic presence that made the character so beloved in the original animated film.

Although the initial look of the live-action Maui is disappointing, Disney still has a chance to address fan concerns and improve the character’s design before the movie is released. Since the film is likely being finalized now, some digital adjustments could still be made to perfect his appearance.

Trailers frequently feature early versions of visual effects, which are often improved before a film’s release. Disney might use audience reactions to refine how Maui looks on screen. For instance, they could enhance the effects on Dwayne Johnson’s wig to make it move more realistically, matching the quality of the animated Maui.

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2026-03-24 22:35