Film Review: Moana

Directed by Ron Clements and John Musker and the 56th Disney animated feature film, Moana tells the story of the strong-willed daughter of a chief of a Polynesian village who is chosen by the ocean itself to reunite a mystical relic with the goddess Te Fiti. When a blight strikes her island, Moana (voiced by Auli’i Cravalho) sets sail in search of Maui (Dwayne Johnson), a legendary demigod, in the hope that he will help her to save her people.

Rating:

Another refreshing film from Disney that is beautifully animated and filled with exceptional visuals and timeless songs. It’s a contemporary tale, brilliantly combining spiritual mythos with modern themes, but also very respectful of the Polynesian culture and landscape.

There’s one song that I didn’t enjoy (the one sung by the crab) but everything else about this film is truly exceptional. The music, the lyrics, the beat – I could listen to this soundtrack in any mood and it will always lighten my spirits.

The scene where Moana faces Te Fiti and sings “They have stolen the heart from inside you, but this does not define you. This is not who you are. You know who you are.”, especially, gets me every time.

And so much yes for Dwayne Johnson voicing Maui! You’re Welcome! has become a firm favourite in our house.