Moannnna!

Rating: 10/10 (11 December 2016)

This animation has a wonderful story line that I found adventurous and captivating! So I get that this animation might be standard Disney formula, which some perceive as predictable and boring, but here's what I feel sets this story apart from some typical Disney films. Moana, the heroine, is NOT a princess. She is destined to be chief. Rarely (if ever), has there been a female chief in ancient Polynesia, and I loved that Disney made this happen! Moana doesn't fall in love with a prince or meet a handsome warrior. She meets mischievous Maui, who actually gives her lots of grief at first, but eventually empowers her. I enjoyed how their relationship develops and that it didn't have to be romantic to be interesting. Also, not to spoil anything, but keep an eye out for hidden Easter eggs throughout! We spotted a couple of homages to Big Hero 6 and Frozen. Clever!
The story incorporates the historical legends of Maui, and I personally have a deep appreciation for Polynesian history and culture. My family and I were excited when we discovered Disney was coming out with an animation about the Polynesian superman, aka Maui, aka demigod. Of course, Disney may have Disnified some aspects or left out some details about the legend, but the song "You're Welcome" summed up several of Maui's accomplishments in various versions of the myth. We found the tale fascinating and the characters moving, even that silly chicken!
The story is set in a fictitious Polynesian island, perhaps in likeness to Samoa or Tokelauan. The music was rhythmic and catchy. We downloaded the soundtrack right after the movie and have been enjoying it!