Moana Review

Disney's Moana, released on November 23rd, is directed by John Musker and Ron Clements. This directing duo also created movies such as: The Little Mermaid, The Princess and The Frog, Aladdin, and The Great Mouse Detective. Moana also features music from brilliant composers such as Lin-Manuel Miranda, Mark Mancina, and Opetaia Foa'i. This movie stars Auli'i Cravalho, Dwayne Johnson, Nicole Scherzinger, Alan Tudyk, and many more.

 
Let me first start out with wow, I think this is one of Disney's best modern "princess" movie yet. Not only because they finally got a princess of color somewhat right (I'm not the biggest fan of Princess Tiana), but the animation, and voice acting in this movie shines bright! Every character in the movie has chemistry and a purpose, I admire this greatly.

First let's start about the culture of this movie. Moana makes you want to know more about Polynesian culture. The songs, and the traditions of Moana's village stick out in the movie, and I can't say how important this is. The whole point of the movie is that Moana loves her people and who she is, so defining Moana's culture is essential. While I can't begin to say that I know all about Polynesian culture, and if its completely accurate, I do think that the movie didn't ruin or corrupt the idea of their culture (at least I hope not). I'm sure some people don't like the things portrayed in the movie, however Disney can't please everyone (and I don't expect them too).  So for now, I hope Moana is in the right direction for the way Disney "princess" movies will be going.

Next, the songs in this movie are not only catchy but they make sense. These songs don't feel as commercial as Frozen's Let it go.  Moana's songs shine, because they actually feel genuine and drive the plot further. I commend Disney on finding the perfect songwriters for this movie. 

 
Lastly, I'm going to talk about story. This story is the simple cliche journey plot, but I couldn't help but like it! I believe it's not about the story, but how the story is told.  Moana isn't the typical girl story, and Moana isn't the typical princess. She represents the girls who don't need a prince to save them, the girl's who don't need male attention, and the girls who want to know who they are. Moana is different; in a good way with talented actors, witty humor, stunning ocean scenes, and beautiful singing. I would say Moana has become my new favorite princess. I give this movie an A (P.S. I like Moana, a little more than Zootopia).

Want to know more about Disney's cultural past? Check out this link: Moana is the Future of Disney (article)