Joyous ode to Polynesian culture

MOANA

Direction: John Musker and Ron Clements Actors: Auli’i Cravalho, Dwayne Johnson Rating:

Aloha! Veteran Disney animators John Musker and Ron Clements (The Little Mermaid, Aladdin) have crafted a joyous ode to ancient Polynesian culture with their rollicking new musical adventure. Brimming with gorgeous visuals, enchanting tunes and a captivating narrative, Moana chronicles the life-changing story of the eponymous South Pacific Islander.

Descended from a long line of navigators, the spirited youngster (dubbed by native Hawaiian newcomer Auli’i Cravalho) defies her father’s wishes and boldly embarks on a quest across the ocean in order to save her people from an ecological disaster.

En route, she encounters a shape-shifting demigod (Dwayne Johnson, delivering a pitch-perfect vocal performance). Joining forces, the unlikely duo strives to overcome impossible odds on their actionpacked high-seas voyage.

Warding off pint-sized coconut-clad pirates as well as gargantuan demons of the deep, Moana is intent on fulfilling her dream of becoming a master wayfinder.

The first Disney feature to have a Polynesian heroine at its centre, the film renders the oceanic setting in vibrant colours.

Punctuated by several memorable songs co-written by Lin-Manuel Miranda, Mark Mancina and the Samoan composer Opetaia Foa’i, the script also relays a powerful message about altruism, courage and environmental issues.

The bewitching cast of supporting characters includes a self-absorbed crab (Jemaine Clement), the protagonist’s strong-willed grandmother (Rachel House), and a memorable stowaway chicken (Alan Tudyk).

The film is fuelled by plenty of good humour and top-notch animation. Moana is brisk, breezy fun. Go ahead and watch it.