The actor said criticism was difficult but remained focused on the film’s message and its celebration of Polynesian culture.

Dwayne Johnson has opened up about how he dealt with mixed reviews following the release of the live-action Moana, admitting that the criticism was difficult but reminding himself to look beyond the film’s opening weekend.

Speaking to People, Johnson reflected on the reaction to the latest Disney release and recalled how positively the first reviews were received.

“Our first two reviews came out,” he said. “I’ll never forget it… They were amazing. I was like, wow.”

However, the reaction soon changed as more reviews and criticism emerged.

“It went another way,” Johnson said, acknowledging that mixed reactions are simply part of the film industry.

The former WWE star also revealed that he discussed the criticism with his wife, Lauren Hashian, during late-night conversations at home after their children had gone to sleep.

“The challenge was, okay, let’s remember, though, what’s going to be beyond this opening weekend,” Johnson recalled.

He said he tried to focus on the bigger picture rather than becoming consumed by the immediate reaction surrounding the film.

 “Let’s remember what’s happening right now and the noise that’s happening right now,” he added. “If you love it, great. If you don’t, no problem.”

Dwayne Johnson highlights Moana’s cultural impact

Despite the criticism, Johnson believes Moana successfully achieved one of its most important goals: celebrating Polynesian culture.

“The culture really stood up,” the actor said, explaining that the representation of Polynesian heritage was ultimately one of the main reasons the film was made.

Johnson’s wife, Lauren Hashian, also highlighted the response from the Polynesian community.

“The whole community, the whole culture really showed up and they understood,” she said.

Hashian added that the themes of family, love, loss and perseverance can resonate with audiences regardless of their cultural background.

“Even if you’re not Polynesian, I think we can understand family and love and loss and perseverance — especially as a mom,” she said. “Having kids and watching it through their eyes, for me, it’s very magical.”

Dwayne Johnson stars in live-action Moana

The live-action Moana was released in cinemas on July 10, 2026.

Johnson stars in the film as Maui, while Auliʻi Cravalho also appears in a leading role. The project brings Disney’s animated story into live action while retaining its central themes of identity, family, courage and Polynesian culture.

For Johnson, the mixed reviews may have created some noise around the film, but he remains focused on the broader impact of Moana and its connection with audiences.