First, the Recap:
Best to leave things be when it comes to the greed of demi-gods. At least, that’s what normal folks would do. However, in primitive Polynesia, one girl is destined to ignore that warning. Belonging to a by-gone tribe of navigators, tribal leader-in-training Moana (voiced by Auli’i Cravalho) has felt the draw of the sea ever since her childhood, a connection calling to her, further encouraged by her aging grandmother, Tala (voiced by Rachel House), but much to consternation of Moana’s father and current leader, Chief Tui (voiced by Temuera Morrison). But with a curse placed on the island due to the wrongful actions taken in the past by the demi-god Maui (voiced by Dwayne Johnson), Moana defies her parent’s wishes and sets sail on an epic adventure to locate Maui, bring him back to the island, and restore it’s heart, therefore returning life to Moana and her people’s beloved home.
Worth Seeing: YES
Need it continue to be stated? Disney and directors Ron Clements and John Musker again pull off what they pretty much always do with this wonderfully enacted, fantastical, mythology-based narrative complete with the catchy songs, awesomely crisp visuals, drama, pathos, humor, and characters you cannot help but become invested in and root for. Common themes about overcoming the odds, believing in yourself, and working together are prevalent here as well, but how can you really ever get tired of that kind of needed, positive life perspective, especially in this day and times?
Cravalho more than effortlessly gives a beautiful and authoritative voice to the Mouse House’s newest princess, Johnson completely hams it up as only he can portraying the ego-driven demi-god Maui, and excellent voice support is also found with Morrison, House, Jemaine Clement, Nicole Scherzinger, and Alan Tudyk. Oh, don’t forget a cute little piglet and one messed-up chicken! Set the sails, face the wind, and fly into awesomeness with “Moana” as soon as you can!
As always, this is all for your consideration and comment. Until next time, thank you for reading!
