Moana reviews

If you have seen the latest computer graphic films like Tangled, Frozen, Big Hero 6 & so forth, you won't be disappointed on seeing this Disneyfied version of the Polynesian Culture & Tradition.

Recommended for all ages!

If Disney had tried to make this a real Polynesian story in more than just the visuals and sounds, I've a feeling they would've entered an uncanny valley territory of storytelling where it would've felt totally wrong. (Maybe if they'd stuck with Taika Waititi's original screenplay this is what might have happened, or more enticingly, what might not have. But we'll never know now.) As it is though, the story's pure Disney and works at that level, with the usual mix of laughter, pulling at the heart-strings and, for the very young I'm sure, a good level of awe. There is one point though, where Moana enters a cave on her home island, where I felt it might've forked into something more ancient and mysterious and wonderful, but it's much too brief a moment and then we're suddenly back in Disney's dazzling world. As to the main characters, Maui's a jerk but Moana's great and most won't mind her being Disney's repre­sentative for Polynesia. So, a point docked for it not quite being what it might've been, and for being a little bit too safe as the pure Disney movie it is. Definitely worth any Disney aficionados' time though, as well as all those kids in the South Pacific who know they need to see it, just to know it.

Good story, compelling characters, beautiful effects. Loved the Polynesian and NZ feel to it and the lesson of being who you are. Highly recommend.

As a father to kids born in Tahiti, it's great to see a movie with a Polynesian spin. The kids sing along, and see part of their culture on the big screen.