Discuss Moana
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Most solid Disney to date?
posted by Will BarksSTAFFMOD on February 8, 2017 at 2:48 AM
As a long time Disney fan, I'm always very critical about their new animated films. At the same time my anticipations are high, giving the amount of quality animation they gave us over the decades. With Moana I really found they surpassed themselves. What impresses me is the amount of research and integration of indigenous Polynesians in the writing process to tell their story in the most authentic way possible. I find this approach to storytelling much more effective than relying on overused clichés. I hope this research process catches on with other studios doing animation (or films in general).
To contrast my praise I quote the director of Kung Fu Panda. In reaction of John Musker's detailed report on Moana's research he replied: We just googled China.
So, Disney, keep on track and don't let Moana's slightly disappointing box office fool you. After Zootopia, Disney proofed themselves once more as being culturally progressive as can be. Applause!
Reply by EdgarDavids
on February 20, 2017 at 10:58 AM
Ehh, not bad but not great, either. The story was formulaic, nothing we haven't seen before. Granted, the visuals were incredible, so the movie is worth a watch on that account.
Reply by Travis Bell
on March 4, 2017 at 9:01 PM
Ya, overall I liked it. The visuals were particularly beautiful though. Wow.
I'd still mark this as one to see with the kids though. No question about that.
Reply by drewsylla
on March 21, 2017 at 11:04 PM
As someone with ties to Polynesian culture (through my bestie and her husband) I picked up on quite a bit of the nods given. I LOVED IT.
Reply by Benedict
on July 15, 2017 at 7:44 AM
Personally I loved the didactic messages of feminism and environmentalism which are in the foreground throughout, but delivered in a really subtle and sympathetic manner. Good film, just skip some of the songs if that's not your bag.
Reply by Brandon
on April 2, 2021 at 1:58 PM
I agree the visuals were stunning. If an animated movie can incorporate large bodies of water and make it look real then that is impressive. It's funny how Maui makes fun of Moana and calls her a Disney princess since she has a dress and animal sidekick then Disney actually made her an official Disney princess, but no Disney Princes in this film.