5/5
If you loved Frozen, then expect Moana to be waaaay better!
I watched it alone, and my only regret is not watching it on 3D. The movie has lots of underlying values about self-discovery, truth, and empathy. The characters are interesting, relatable and appealing in the simplest sense. Instead of the usual fight-to-be-with-the-one-you-love drama, they gave her Maui, a flawed Demigod, who (like the rest of us) is also in his own journey to finding purpose and self-worth.
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| Who can forget Hei Hei? |
It follows the classic Disney formula, but nobody’s complaining. The touch of Polynesian culture and ethnicity and Moana’s tough and genuine character have truly won us over.
I loved how the film showcased the tradition of Polynesians as experienced navigators of the sea – having their own trade secrets in wayfinding (observing the sky, the location of stars) and constructing outrigger canoes. It got me interested in reading more about their culture and listening to Polynesian music. BTW, all praises to Opetaia Foa'i, Mark Mancina, and Lin-Manuel Miranda for the musical scoring, which merited a lot to the success of the movie!
Let me share with you some lessons that I picked up from Moana’s flight to finding herself. Share some of your insights, too, in the comments section.
1. Solitude is necessary for self-discovery and growth.
We need to step back from all the noise and influences to really know the desires of our heart and to make sound decisions. The very reason why Gramma Tala sent Moana alone inside the cave, to make her own sense of their tribe’s past and tradition.
2. You are not defined by the bad things that happened to you.
When Moana sang “Know Who You Are” as lava goddess Te Ka approaches her, it was like a lullaby for all those who are lost, hurt and misunderstood. When Maui stole her heart, she transformed into Te ka (dark and ruthless). Still, a part of her remebers her old self as Te Fiti, and she clings on winning back her heart.
3. We cannot move forward, unless we acknowledge our roots, our past.
Nobody should be bound to their past, but from them, we learn and move forward. We have the power to decide on what to do with this knowledge, just like the ancestors of Moana when they had to stop voyaging. And also, just like their tribe, when they decided that it is safe to navigate the ocean once more.
4. We need to choose our battles carefully.
This is the first time that a Disney princess identified with the villain, instead of the usual persecution. It is that part of the story when we take a second look at the monster chasing us and just stop running. It is this part that instead of cowering in fear, we decide to stand our ground and change the villain and the battle ground instead.
5. We can fulfill our duties, AND follow our dreams, too.
Heir of a chief and voyager? Uhm, yeah! Moana is winning in life! She gives us hope that we can live the life we imagined (and still not disappoint our parents). We just need to find the courage and strength to claim it for ourselves today.
Disclaimer: I do not own any of the graphics used above. They are from Disney's website and other web sources. Thanks!
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