⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ 4.5
Having not seen the original animated version, I was able to go into this film with a completely fresh perspective, free from comparisons. I’m judging it purely on its own merits as a live-action experience.
While these Disney remakes always seem to spark debate, it makes me wonder if the studio gets an unfair bashing these days. One common online criticism is that for a “live-action” film, it relies incredibly heavily on CGI and animation. However, knowing how much Snow White was battered by critics but still enjoyed by audiences, I went in expecting this to likely be okay.
Ultimately, my wife and I both really enjoyed it (and not just because the cinema’s air conditioning offered a welcome break from the heat!). Regardless of whether a remake was necessary so soon after the original, it stands up as a great film in its own right.
The casting, acting, special effects, and music are all excellent. Aside from an entertaining, singing Dwayne Johnson, most of the cast hail from Australia and New Zealand. Catherine Lagaʻaia is excellent as Moana, bringing life to the character, and Rena Owen is fantastic as her grandmother. The film boasts some amazing musical set pieces and a straightforward, easy-to-follow story.
Filmed in Hawaii and Atlanta, the movie captures a beautiful, authentic Polynesian look and feel. It’s an uplifting watch with some great light humor that will undoubtedly be enjoyed by adults and children alike.
So, what are the critics actually complaining about? Mostly, they take issue with the heavy use of CGI. But let’s be realistic—a film like this, adapted from a cartoon, was always going to rely on visual effects. Others argue the remake has come too soon. Thankfully, some reviewers are being kinder. Many people just seem to have an issue with Disney remaking their library. At the end of the day, it’s a children’s movie, and it will be completely fresh to a whole generation of under-12s.
If you’re a Disney fan, find the trailer appealing or have kids, you should definitely see it. The sound and visuals are incredible on the big screen and Catherine Lagaʻaia’s vocals are fantastic. It’s a feel-good movie that’s sure to please audiences who ignore critics and enjoy it for what it is.
The live-action adaptation of Moana closely follows the plot of the 2016 animated film:
Prompted by a spiritual summons from the ocean, Moana, the fearless teenage daughter of Motunui’s village chief, journeys beyond her island’s protective barrier reef for the first time. To reverse an ecological blight threatening her community, she must track down the exiled, shapeshifting demigod Maui and force him to restore the stolen heart of the goddess Te Fiti.
Online synopsis
Film Rating
Music/Sound
4 out of 5
Story/plot
4 out of 5
Acting/Performances
5 out of 5
Overall
4.5 out of 5
Certification: 12
Running time: 115 minutes
Screening type: 2D
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