Review of Moana (2016) by J H — 03 Mar 2017

Moana is the story of a young Polynesian girl who sets out on a lonely journey to fulfill her dream and discover the answer for her island's problem, but more importantly her people's problem. Moana and the people of Motunui live on a dying island, which is diminishing their food sources. Being the Chief's daughter, Moana falls nothing short of being a great leader, let alone a great example to viewers. While accompanying Moana on her journey, you discover the immense amount of courage, strength, and determination the young girl has.

Near the beginning of the movie, Moana is battling between fulfilling her duties on the island and answering the call from the sea. Moana's father who is chief of the village advises, "you must find happiness right where you are". Despite the words of someone very significant to her, Moana still senses the call from the sea and courageously enough acts on it. Moana's ability to go against her father's advice and set forth on a lonely journey tells viewers that no matter how scary it is, sometimes it is important to go against the norm for a better cause.

If Moana going against her father's advice wasn't enough, she stands up to the macho, demi-god Maui as well. Shaking off the downgrading comments like, "If you wear a dress and have an animal sidekick, you're a princess," that slip out of Maui's mouth, Moana stands her ground and persistently demands Maui to board her boat. Ultimately Maui disregards Moana's demands, and Moana results to the help of her friend, the sea, to once again board her boat which Maui has stolen. "I am Moana of Motunui. You will board my boat and restore the heart to Te Fiti," Moana commands the famous Maui, illuminating her indescribable strength which radiates from the screen to the viewers. Moana's need for strength is so relatable, weather it's your mean boss or a bully, Moana's strength in this scene is so contagious you could very well find yourself quoting her if given the opportunity.

However, Moana does not wait for opportunities, but creates them. In fact, when given golden opportunities to quit Moana decides to do nothing of the sort. Feeling defeated after a loss, Moana's determination is rekindled, "I delivered us to where we are, I have journeyed farther, I am everything I've learned and more," she sings before plunging into the sea to complete her journey.

The movie will leave you feeling nothing but inspired by young Moana's heart that bursts with the mindset of courage, strength, and determination. Shown in the movie, Moana, having the combination of courage, strength, and determination creates a much more important mindset. We can learn from young Moana's key mindset; to always keep the bigger picture in mind, because it will ultimately lead us to success.