Overview

• Critics say the remake’s new resolution of Nani’s custody storyline departs from the original’s message that ‘ohana’ keeps families together.
• Reviewers from across the political spectrum argue the film’s depiction of ‘ohana’ and hanai practices either sanitizes or misrepresents Native Hawaiian culture.
• Some viewers contend that character adjustments—such as Jumba’s shift to a more villainous role and David’s reduced significance—undermine the original narrative balance.
• Disney’s choice to portray Nani as a former top student with college ambitions reflects an effort to differentiate the live-action version but has sparked debate over faithfulness to the source material.
• Despite mixed reactions, the movie’s strong box office shows audiences remain receptive to Disney’s live-action adaptations.