If you have not seen Disney's newest film, Moana, please do yourself the favor and go! It's the story of an ancient Polynesian teenager who is finding herself and following her heart. With Dwayne "The Rock' Johnson as Maui and introducing Auli'i Cravalho as the title character, this movie is an undeniable success. This movie is unlike other Disney movies in many ways. Moana proves to be a new role model for the younger generation that is rather a stark contrast from most other Disney Princesses.
Here is only five (out of the many) reasons Moana is an instant classic:
1. She has both of her parents.
Moana is not some little girl who lost her birth mother and now lives with her evil stepmother. She lives a happy life as the chief's daughter on an island. I am pretty sure all Disney fans are sick of the regurgitated and predictable story line of a missing parent - not to dismiss families that mirror the dynamic.
2. The culture in the film.
I was always fascinated by the culture included in Disney films. I loved getting a small glimpse of Arabia from Aladdin, China from Mulan, and Greece (and the mythology) from Hercules. The Polynesian culture and beliefs and traditions highlighted in Moana were enchanting. I even tried doing my own research to learn more about their beliefs and the story behind Maui and other deities and lore mentioned in the movie. I am a sucker for learning and culture though. Despite the culture - and not every viewer being of Polynesian descent - in true Disney fashion, the creators made sure these were relatable characters to further bring a sense of community and unity to viewers. No matter the background of the characters, this movies addresses the "finding yourself" issue that everyone - boy or girl - faces. Not many of us are worried about fighting off a dragon or avoiding poisonous apples like the older Disney movies.
3. Lin-Manuel Miranda.
I truly don't need to say any more. However, I will. If you are unfamiliar with Miranda, he is an actor, singer, writer, rapper, and composer. Miranda without a doubt wrote outstanding and meaningful songs that would make anyone forget "Let It Go". This man's talent is limitless. If you thought the Frozen soundtrack was good, listen to "How Far I'll Go" and other songs from this movie.
4. Moana never once tried finding love - only herself.
This film shows no romantic counterpart for Moana. There is no prince. No "true love" plot. Moana is only looking to follow her heart and find herself. It is a coming of age story and not a romance. This lack of romance is such a breath of fresh air.
5. Moana is not built like other Disney princesses.
We know the typical princess look: tall, thin, can sing soprano. Moana defies it all (well, not certain about the singing as I am not sure voice parts and ranges). She is without a doubt a beautiful new Disney princess (well, chief), but she does not have that "ideal" (and I say that loosely) figure. It's about time we have a princess and role model who isn't a size 0 and making young girls believe they need to fit a stereotype.
There is so much more to love about Moan than the aforementioned. Don't take my word for it though. See it for yourself and add it to the top of you "favorite movies" list.