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Rating: 8/10 (31 May 2017)

Textbook Disney. A tried and true formula that stands the test of time. What more can we expect from Disney legends like Clements and Musker? Apparently, a lot! The visual effects, from the hand-drawn animation to the stunning CGI, blew me away. These directors had minimal experience dealing with CGI films but, with Moana, they dominated animation in 2016, over fantastic films like Finding Dory and Zootopia. The voice cast was also excellent. Dwayne Johnson, in particular, should devote more time to voice acting, because he was incredible. I also always appreciate nods in animation to great live-action films, like Fury Road. The soundtrack was better than I could have imagined. Lin-Manuel Miranda's writing stole the show enough for me to research more of his music. Finally, Disney has never shied away from strong female protagonists, but Moana takes it even further. They morally dumbed down Maui so Moana could shine more, but she shines bright anyway. A completely three-dimensional Polynesian princess that doesn't need a Disney prince to complete her story. Disney has always been at the forefront of returning women to the central roles they deserve in film. A company that's not scared to tackle the depths of the better sex. I do have my problems with the film, and they are very much as textbook as the positives, but I enjoyed what I saw. And that chicken, though. Top 500 film. 8/10 — ￼watching Moana.