New 'Vaiana' live-action remake opens to mixed reviews

The live-action remake of Disney's Vaiana (2016) opens in Spanish cinemas on July 10, 2026, with Dwayne Johnson reprising his role as the demigod Maui and Catherine Laga'aia stepping into the role of Vaiana. Directed by Thomas Kail, the film has received a lukewarm reception, with critics divided on its merits.

Reception

La Vanguardia's Salvador Llopart gives the film three out of five stars, calling it a "plato recalentado" (reheated dish) that adds nothing new to the original. He notes that while Laga'aia is convincing and Johnson brings his usual charisma, their chemistry is lacking, resulting in a movie that "nada sorprende" Source: La Vanguardia. Infobae reports that the film has not been greeted with the warmest welcome, but acknowledges Disney's ability to evoke emotion, particularly through the performances Source: Infobae. The agency article highlights the film's direction by Thomas Kail and the return of Johnson as both actor and producer Source: Infobae.

Other releases

The week also sees several other notable releases: 'Haciendo amigos', a comedy starring Antonio Resines and Quim Gutiérrez about a theater group for people with disabilities; the Argentine drama 'Las corrientes' by Milagros Mumenthaler, which premiered at the San Sebastián Festival; the French thriller 'La copia perfecta' about a master forger; and 'Tal vez', inspired by the true story of trapeze artist Pinito del Oro Source: Infobae.