Moana is definitely not your typical Disney princess movie. Moana, played by Auli’i Cravalho, is the story of a girl who sets sail, without the permission of her parents, to save her island in the South Pacific. This movie made me feel a plethora of different emotions. At times I was crying and at others I was hysterically laughing. Moana is such an empowering character: so brave, independent, and headstrong. Also, I have to mention that there was no love interest, only her love for her island. This defies the norms of typical Disney princess movies where the princess’ happiness is fulfilled only after having found her prince. The movie soundtrack was also incredible. As we all know, Lin-Manuel Miranda is a songwriting god. The Moana soundtrack is sung perfectly by the cast and has very catchy lyrics.

Since I am talking about Moana, I also have to talk about Maui, played by Dwayne Johnson, the demigod who reluctantly helps her on her journey in saving the island. He is so funny and will definitely make you, and whoever you are watching Moana with, laugh. Many of you all may have already heard about Maui because of the controversial Halloween costume that was being sold. When I first heard about this costume, I thought it was not okay, because I felt it was making a mockery out of Pacific Islander culture. However after watching Moana, I had a change of heart because, I realized the tattoos are a big part of Maui’s character. Maui’s journey is told through his tattoos and he takes great pride in them. Maui would not be Maui without his tattoos and it would be reasonable for a costume of Maui to also have his tattoos.
All in all, I would rate this movie a 10/10 and it is definitely one for the entire family. It is different than other Disney princess movies yet still has that magical and fantastical feel to it. I would highly recommend this as the next movie night pick.