Dwayne Johnson’s mature approach to 'Moana' criticism revealed

Dwayne Johnson revealed how he tackled mixed reviews after the release of Moana.

Reflecting on the latest live-action release, in an interview with the People magazine, Dwayne Johnson revealed that the movie received mixed reactions. 

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

However, he added, "It went another way,” referring to the criticism. “As sometimes happens."

The former WWE star remarked that the criticism in the film industry is “just the way it goes.”

Adding, “Had a lot of these conversations at home, at the kitchen island late at night when the babies are asleep,” with the wife Lauren Hashian.

Moreover, the actor described how he dealt with the early criticism, “The challenge was, okay, let’s remember, though, what’s going to be beyond this opening weekend.”

Noting, “Let’s remember what’s happening right now and the noise that’s happening right now.”

“If you love it, great. If you don’t, no problem,” he further added.

However, The Rock pointed out that the film’s purpose was to honor Polynesian culture which he believes was successfully depicted, stating, “The culture really stood up,” and which was ultimately “why the movie was made.”

“The whole community, the whole culture really showed up and they understood,” the Fast and Furious star’s wife added to the conversation.

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

It is pertinent to mention that the live-action Moana was released on July 10, 2026. Aside from Dwayne Johnson, Auli’i Cravalho can also be seen in the movie as a main lead.