Unpacking the Cultural Roots of Moana: What Makes the Disney Hit So Special?
Disney’s 2016 hit Moana had audiences of all ages charmed with its stunning visuals, catchy soundtrack, and lovable characters. Beneath its seemingly entertaining exterior, Moana is a cultural masterpiece that celebrates Polynesian traditions and values. In this article, we’ll dig deeper and explore what makes Moana so special by diving into its cultural roots.
The Importance of Representation
As a children’s movie praised for its diversity, Moana showcases the significance of representation. The protagonist, Moana, is a strong-willed teenager who embarks on a journey to restore her island’s heart with help from demigod Maui. The director, Ron Clements, has emphasized the critical importance of representing Polynesian people and cultures accurately in Moana.
Accordingly, Maori and other Pacific islanders were consulted throughout the production process, providing insight on language, clothing, and culture. This deliberate representation allows children of all cultures to see themselves in Moana and understand the importance of celebrating diversity.
Polytheistic Religion in Moana
Polytheistic religion is an essential element of many cultures, and Moana effectively incorporates this into its storyline. In the movie, we see several gods and goddesses that play crucial roles in the story. The demigod Maui is a trickster that helps Moana on her journey, while Te Fiti is a goddess of life, creation, and fertility.
The incorporation of religion helps audiences understand the culture’s beliefs, customs, and values. The movie does a fantastic job of showing how the two are intertwined and how people’s faith connects them to their land, families, and ancestry.
The Music and Dance of Moana
Moana’s music does more than entertain its audience. The soundtrack includes traditional Polynesian music along with songs written specifically for the movie. The music celebrates and incorporates the rhythms, instruments, and storytelling methods of Polynesian culture in a way that isn’t often showcased in Hollywood films.
The dance sequences provide a sort of visual storytelling that brings the music and culture to life. The characters move and breathe in sync with the music, evoking a sense that they are one with the land and island goddesses.
Cultural Respect and Understanding
Moana serves as a call to cultural understanding and respect. The movie teaches us the value of preserving and promoting traditions while also adapting to change. It is a reminder that our past and present are connected, and progress can and should be made without ignoring our roots.
In conclusion, Moana is a unique and culturally rich masterpiece that showcases the diverse cultures of Polynesia while also entertaining audiences worldwide. Its representation of indigenous cultures, polytheistic religion, music and dance, and the importance of cultural respect and understanding makes Moana so much more than just a feel-good movie. As we continue to navigate increasingly diverse societies, Moana serves as an essential reminder of the importance of celebrating our differences and promoting cultural understanding.
