Disney's live-action remake of Moana is setting sail at the box office once again, with the film making $4.5 million in previews. The new take on the classic animated musical, starring Catherine Laga'ia as Moana and Dwayne Johnson reprising his role as Maui, is estimated to open between $60 million to $65 million this weekend.
However, some projections are softer at around $40 million, which could leave the tropical film floundering under the weight of its massive $250 million production budget, plus global marketing costs. This budget is a significant investment for Disney, which has been known for its successful live-action remakes, such as The Lion King and Aladdin.
The international box office could rescue the film, where Moana is expected to add another $70 million to $75 million to its haul. This would be a crucial factor in determining the film's overall success, as the international market has been a key driver of box office revenue for many films in recent years.
The film's cast, including Catherine Laga'ia and Dwayne Johnson, has been praised for their performances, with many fans excited to see the beloved characters brought to life in a new way. The film's director, however, has not been publicly announced.
Moana's success will also depend on its reception by critics and audiences alike. If the film receives positive reviews and word-of-mouth is strong, it could perform well at the box office. However, if the film is met with negative reviews, it could struggle to recoup its production costs.
A Mixed Outlook for Moana's Box Office Performance
While the film's opening weekend is expected to be strong, its long-term prospects are uncertain. If the film opens on the lower end of the projected range, it could struggle to recoup its production costs. However, with a strong international box office performance, Moana could still be a commercial success.
The film's success will also be influenced by the current state of the film industry, which has been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and other factors. The industry has been slowly recovering in recent years, but it remains to be seen how Moana will fare in this environment.
Frequently asked questions
How much did Moana make in previews?
Moana made $4.5 million in previews at the box office.
What is Moana's production budget?
The production budget for Moana is $250 million, plus global marketing costs.
How much is Moana expected to make internationally?
Moana is expected to add another $70 million to $75 million internationally.
Who stars in the live-action remake of Moana?
The live-action remake of Moana stars Catherine Laga'ia as Moana and Dwayne Johnson as Maui.
How much is Moana expected to open at the box office?
Moana is estimated to open between $60 million to $65 million this weekend.
