Disney’s live-action adaptation of “Moana” has begun its box office journey with $4.5 million in Thursday previews, positioning the film for a potentially strong opening weekend in North America.

The remake stars Catherine Laga’aia as Moana, while Dwayne Johnson reprises his role as the demigod Maui. Industry estimates project the film could earn between $60 million and $65 million during its opening weekend, although some forecasts are more conservative at around $40 million.

A stronger debut would help offset the movie’s reported $250 million production budget and extensive global marketing costs. International markets are also expected to contribute significantly, with projections ranging from $70 million to $75 million overseas.

“Moana” could join the likes of Disney’s “Dumbo” remake, which opened to $45 million in 2019, and 2025’s “Snow White” ($42 million), as less successful live-action remakes. On the other hand, Disney has enjoyed major success with titles such as “Lilo & Stitch,” “The Lion King”, and “Beauty and the Beast,” all of which debuted with more than $100 million.

The film’s preview earnings are comparable to “Lightyear’s” $5.2 million and “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire’s” $4.7 million. “Lightyear” ultimately debuted to $50.6 million, while “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire” launched with $45 million.

Analysts say the release faces a unique challenge, arriving just two years after “Moana 2” became a billion-dollar hit. The sequel exceeded expectations with a $225 million opening over the Thanksgiving holiday, while the original 2016 animated film earned $680 million worldwide after debuting with $56 million domestically.

Elsewhere, Warner Bros.’ horror sequel “Evil Dead Burn” is targeting a $15 million to $20 million opening after earning $2.3 million in previews