Monday, November 28, 2016

Moana (2016) Movie Review

Image result for moana



The only thing I found wrong with Moana was its insistent use of Disney's old tricks. Father disapproves of child's behavior. Child strikes off on her own in spite of father's wishes. Yes, it's been done and many, many times before. I can't be too hard on them, however, as there is a reason they continue to utilize it: It works. 

All the things that Moana does well (and exceptionally at that) far outweigh the been-there-done-that vibe it slightly gives off. The film as a whole is definitely entertaining, especially to the funnybone. Every character has a distinct personality and will find a way to make you laugh in their own way. Gramma Tala (Rachel House), known as the village cuckoo, draws you in with her nonchalant personality very reminiscent of Oogway from Kung Fu Panda. The ocean itself has a sentient personality of its own as it ebbs and flows, reacting to everything happening within the scene. While Maui (Dwayne Johnson) and Moana (Auli'i Cravalho) were the main characters, the chicken stole the show for me. You can't help but laugh at the poor, dumb creature as it wanders about aimlessly through the movie getting into danger then rescued without knowing of either.

Moana isn't just about providing you with a good time, but also hits you with a great message. It preaches the power of persistence and following your heart. Between the message, the amazing visuals, and its scope of originality, Moana is a solid package of a movie.

When an island god threatens to destroy her village, young Chief-In-Training Moana must go on a quest to track down demi-god Maui and demand his help to make things right. During a year where animated movies are dominating the movie circuit, this definitely stands out as one of 2016's best. I give it a 96.

No comments:

Post a Comment