Disney’s 2016 animated blockbuster, Moana, has received a live-action remake that, while competently produced, feels largely unnecessary and lacks excitement. The screenplay has been adapted by Jared Bush, who also worked on the original, while Thomas Kail, known for his Broadway experience, makes his directorial debut in film. The beloved songs by Lin-Manuel Miranda have been reintroduced in this new version. Nineteen-year-old Australian-Samoan actress Catherine Laga’aia stars as Moana, the determined teenage daughter of a Polynesian chief, with New Zealand actress Rena Owen portraying her wise grandmother Tala, who sees Moana’s potential as a leader.

In this adaptation, Moana embarks on a mission to restore the heart of the goddess Te Fiti, a task essential for resolving the environmental crisis affecting her island of Motunui. To succeed, she teams up with the overconfident demigod Maui, reprised by Dwayne Johnson, who appears just as muscular and larger-than-life as his animated counterpart. Maui also has his own goal: to reclaim his magical hook, which is key to his powers, and he must face his adversary, the giant crab Tamatoa, voiced once again by Jemaine Clement. Tamatoa, like Moana’s pet chicken Heihei, is depicted in 3D animation, closely resembling the original 2D character.

While Johnson delivers some amusing moments, and his chemistry with Laga’aia is commendable, it feels as though he is relying on familiar routines, operating on a kind of autopilot. The film, marketed as “live-action,” relies heavily on CGI, making it feel more like an animated feature than a traditional live-action movie. A stage musical adaptation might offer a more vibrant opportunity for the musical elements to shine. Ultimately, this remake appears to be an unnecessary addition, primarily aimed at capitalizing on the original’s success.

Moana will be released in Australia on July 9 and in the UK and US on July 10.