With films like “Zootopia," “Inside Out,” “The Princess and the Frog” and “Tangled,” I think it’s safe to say that a brand new age of Disney cinema has begun. Many people consider it to be a Revival Era. Since 2008, the studio has presented a diverse slab of films that strive to emulate wondrous quality of past hits such as “The Lion King” and “Beauty and the Beast.” And for the most part, they succeed in doing just that. But some failed to exceed expectations. So the question becomes less about what new project the studio will tackle, but whether or not it’ll have the spirit. In the case of their newest animated feature, “Moana,” Disney has proved that the magic is still alive.
Moana (Auli’i Cravalho) resides on the luscious Polynesian island of Motunui. As the daughter of the village chief, she is destined to take her father’s place and watch over her people. But it’s not necessarily what her heart wants. The sea is calling her. Despite her family’s wishes to stay ashore, Moana desires to explore the ocean. But when a mysterious dark force infects her home and the surrounding islands, she takes it upon herself to find the shamed demi-god, Maui (Dwayne Johnson), and restore peace to her homeland.
The thing I was looking forward to the most about “Moana” was how they’d showcase the Oceanic civilization. A part of me was worried the film wouldn’t do it justice, and that directors John Musker and Ron Clements would only scratch the surface and not capture its essence. But any concerns I had were washed away within the first few minutes of the film. The Polynesian culture is fully realized through the gorgeous cinematography and soundtrack. The film is beautiful, with bright colors and a great attention to detail. Everything looked great, especially the water. For a moment, if felt like I could jump through the screen and swim in it.
Lin-Manuel Miranda had a heavy, if not dominant, hand in writing the music. Each song feels modern, yet with a traditional flourish. They’re what you expect from Disney songs - the opening one that presents the community, the funny one, the villain’s song and the big emotional one sung by the main character. But they are so catchy and clever that you’ll definitely catch yourself humming them as you leave the theater.
The voice actors disappear in their roles. Newcomer Auli’i Cavalho is pitch-perfect as Moana. Not only is she a strong singer, but she brings a cuteness, confidence and determination to the role that helps shape Moana into the next great Disney princess. The character of Moana is a great example of a strong female role model, one whose main concerns are toward adventure and exploration. She's an active hero, and one who doesn't need the accompaniment of a man. The Rock is really funny as the narcissistic Maui. His likable personality shines through, and his singing isn’t too bad either. The other performances are also very good, especially Jemaine Clement, who does the voice of a giant crab creature with a musical talent of David Bowie.
The story goes in the ways you would normally expect out of a Disney film, but there are a few new elements sprinkled in that makes it interesting to watch. The film retains the feel of a fairytale, but it is, first and foremost, an adventure flick. The action is engaging as it is beautiful, and way it carries you through the Polynesian mythology. “Moana” is a thrilling, heartfelt film is a fantastic fairytale that’s sure to be the next Disney classic.
