Disney had released a new movie following a female heroine who will inspire people to explore and to find themselves: “Moana.” The movie is absolutely touching and extraordinary. It had many humorous scenes that made it hard not to giggle.

Moana plays an independent Disney princess who fits realistic standards for viewers. Although she doesn’t assume the title of a princess in the movie, she motivates viewers as though she were a Disney princess. She is very confident and proactive and hopeful. She can achieve the impossible and encourages the audience to do the same.

American singer and actress Auli’i Cravalho plays the Polynesian and adventurous Moana. The film starts off with Moana’s grandmother, Gramma Tala (Rachel House) telling the story of the demigod, Maui (Dwayne Johnson) to a baby Moana. Maui had taken the Heart (represented as a green glowing stone) of the island goddess, Te Fiti, which evidently leads to conflict and darkness amongst the other islands including Moana’s. The curious and growing Moana becomes attached to the ocean, however, must fulfill her duty as the future chief of her tribe. As a curse emerges upon the island, Gramma Tala encourages Moana to go out into the ocean to save it. With her passion and motivation, Moana then sails off on a dangerous, almost impossible voyage to meet a cocky, once-mighty Maui, encounter challenges with Te Fiti, and discover her own identity.

The film is filled with a lot of engaging adventure and musical numbers. The soundtrack and empowering story brings people into the movie and is incredibly fantastic. Additionally, the movie has its heartfelt scenes in which I, myself, teared up as well as funny moments including an idiotic chicken named Heihei (Alan Tudyk).

Disney had put in a lot of effort into this film and the cast did a great job portraying their characters. Auli’i Cravalho, being born in Hawaii, and Dwayne Johnson, who attended a year of high school in Hawaii, both had truly captured their Polynesian roles.

All in all, “Moana” will definitely become a fan-favorite with the catchy songs, hilarious script and inspiring storyline. Being a Disney fan, I fell in love with the movie and its message. “Moana” is a can’t-miss and uniquely entertaining film. The movie made $81 million on its Thanksgiving weekend opening (Nov. 23 to Nov. 28). It is absolutely worth an hour and 53 minutes of your time.

My Rating: 9/10