Moana, the newest animated Disney movie, has taken the nation by storm. It’s captivating story revolves around Polynesian beliefs and culture. Moana Waialiki, the main character and the upcoming chief of the island, is a high spirited, determined young lady who seeks to bring life back to her island after the plentiful crops have been diminished and the ocean has become dry of fish. But to do this, she must go against her father’s will  by sailing beyond the reef and finding the great demi-god Maui, who she will need in order to restore the once luscious island due to his possession and knowledge of the legend of the island goddess’ (Te Fiti) heart. Although her parents refuse to allow Moana to sail into the unknown, her Grandmother Tala shows her that there is more to see beyond the bounds of the island and guides her in the right direction in following the path of her ancestors. She then gives Moana Te Fiti’s heart, which takes the form of a small green stone. After her grandmother passes away, Moana feels as determined as ever to fulfill her destiny. Moana sails off into the unknown having only the stars to guide her and becomes successful in not only restoring the island, but also establishing a relationship with her culture and Maui.

Walt Disney Pictures’ 56th animated feature has been given exceptional ratings and reviews. IMDb gives Moana an excellent 8.4/10 for the film and others have been rating it positively ever since it was released. Top critics commend Dwayne Johnson’s role as Maui and Auli’i Cravalho’s role as Moana along with the moving soundtrack produced by Lin-Manuel Miranda. A litany of the viewers find delight in the fact that Moana is portrayed as an independent young woman, who is driven by her sense of leadership and devotion to her culture. Adam Graham from the Detroit News comments, “If movies are meant to be a getaway, Moana is like a vacation.” You become so engulfed in the pristine animation, vivid colors, catchy music, and the seamless story line, it seems as if you are taking the journey along with the characters.

After viewing the movie, I saw it as nothing short of perfection. It truly takes a lot to captivate an audience in only 103 minutes, but Moana definitely delivered. The soundtrack that accompanied the movie was truly moving and connected the audience with the characters. Moana herself was portrayed as a great role model to the younger viewers, showing them that one should always follow their heart and do what is right when faced with a difficult situation. Although she may not be a princess with a fancy gown and a prince charming, she undeniably proves herself to be more than just an ordinary young lady. Her independence and determined demeanor proves that she can do anything she sets her mind to. The tasteful use of comedy throughout the animated film was perfectly woven into the movie through the characters and their animals in which accompanied them. Moana gives us the inside look on Polynesian culture and their history, allowing the Polynesian viewers to establish a connection. Overall, Moana is one of the best Disney animated feature films that I personally have seen, and I encourage you to go to the movies and take an adventure with the beautiful and devoted Moana herself.