Tabby Meador

Written by Tabby Meador

Modified & Updated: 09 May 2024

Sherman Smith

Reviewed by Sherman Smith

43-facts-about-the-movie-moana
Source: Mubi.com

Are you ready to set sail on a remarkable adventure? Look no further than the beloved Disney film, Moana. Released in 2016, this animated musical quickly captured the hearts of audiences around the world. With its stunning animation, catchy songs, and compelling storyline, Moana became an instant classic. But beyond the magic and allure on the surface, there are so many fascinating facts about this film that even the most dedicated fans might not be aware of. From the inspiration behind the characters to the cultural significance of the story, there’s a wealth of knowledge to uncover. In this article, we will dive deep into the world of Moana and explore 43 intriguing facts that will surely enrich your appreciation for this enchanting masterpiece.

Key Takeaways:

  • “Moana” is a 2016 Disney movie set in the Pacific Islands, featuring a strong-willed teenage girl on a daring adventure. It celebrates female empowerment, Polynesian culture, and the importance of family and nature.
  • The film’s stunning animation, memorable characters, and powerful messages continue to inspire and entertain audiences worldwide. “Moana” breaks the traditional Disney princess mold and promotes cultural appreciation and resilience.
Table of Contents

Moana Was Released in 2016

Moana, the animated musical adventure film, was released by Walt Disney Pictures in It became an instant hit.

Moana Is Set in the Pacific Islands

The movie is set in the ancient Pacific Islands and showcases the vibrant culture and mythology of the region.

The Title Character, Moana, is a Strong-Willed Teenager

Moana, the main character, is a young, determined teenager who sets out on a daring adventure to save her people.

Moana Is Voiced by Auli’i Cravalho

Auli’i Cravalho, a talented actress and singer from Hawaii, provided the voice for the character of Moana.

Dwayne Johnson Voices the Demigod Maui

The larger-than-life character of Maui, a demigod and Moana’s companion, is voiced by none other than Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson.

Moana Was Directed by Ron Clements and John Musker

Ron Clements and John Musker, the renowned directors behind Disney classics like “The Little Mermaid” and “Aladdin,” directed Moana.

“How Far I’ll Go” was Nominated for an Academy Award

The powerful and inspirational anthem, “How Far I’ll Go,” from Moana was nominated for Best Original Song at the Academy Awards.

The Movie Features a Unique Animation Style

Moana stands out with its visually stunning animation, showcasing the beauty of the Pacific Islands and its oceanic landscapes.

Moana Emphasizes Female Empowerment

The film celebrates the strength and independence of its female protagonist, Moana, as she defies gender norms and takes on challenges.

The Music for Moana was Composed by Lin-Manuel Miranda

Lin-Manuel Miranda, the Tony Award-winning composer of “Hamilton,” contributed to Moana’s unforgettable soundtrack.

Moana’s Sidekick is a Comical Chicken Named Heihei

Heihei, the clumsy and lovable rooster, brings humor to the story as Moana’s sidekick during her journey.

The Movie Tells a Tale of Wayfinding

Moana explores the ancient Polynesian tradition of wayfinding, which involves using the stars, wind, and ocean currents for navigation.

Moana is Disney’s 56th Animated Feature Film

Moana holds the distinction of being the 56th animated feature film produced by Walt Disney Animation Studios.

Maui Possesses a Magical Fishhook

Maui’s trusty fishhook, known as the “hook of Maui,” grants him the ability to shapeshift and control elements.

Moana’s Grandmother Plays a Significant Role

Moana’s wise and supportive grandmother provides guidance and encouragement throughout her journey.

The Film Showcases Polynesian Mythology

Moana incorporates various elements from Polynesian mythology, including gods, demigods, and magical creatures.

The Movie Was a Box Office Success

Moana grossed over $690 million worldwide, becoming a commercial success for Walt Disney Pictures.

The Movie Features a Memorable Villain, Te K?

Te K?, a fearsome lava monster, serves as the main antagonist in Moana, posing a great threat to the characters.

Moana’s Quest is to Discover Her Identity

Throughout the film, Moana embarks on a journey of self-discovery, uncovering her true calling and embracing her heritage.

Moana Sails Across the Ocean in a Canoe

Moana’s trusty vessel is a traditional Polynesian canoe called a “wa’a,” which she uses to navigate the vast ocean.

The Film Celebrates the Importance of Nature

Moana conveys a strong environmental message, highlighting the importance of preserving and respecting nature.

The Characters Were Designed with Authenticity

The animators and designers worked closely with Polynesian cultural advisors to ensure the film’s characters and settings were culturally accurate.

Moana’s Hair Took Years to Perfect

Creating Moana’s realistic, flowing hair was a technical challenge for the animators, who spent years perfecting its movement and texture.

Moana Uses Her Navigation Skills to Help Her People

Moana’s skills as a wayfinder and navigator become crucial in her mission to save her island and her people.

The Film Explores Themes of Family and Heritage

Moana delves into the importance of family bonds and the connection to one’s cultural heritage.

Moana’s Journey is Packed with Exciting Adventure

From encounters with mystical creatures to facing treacherous obstacles, Moana’s journey is filled with thrilling moments.

Moana has a Strong Connection with the Ocean

Moana has a deep, spiritual connection with the ocean, which guides and protects her throughout her quest.

The Film Features Polynesian Language and Music

Moana incorporates Polynesian language, such as the use of the word “ohana,” meaning “family,” and traditional music into its soundtrack.

The Film Was Critically Acclaimed

Moana received widespread praise from critics for its animation, storytelling, and cultural representation.

Moana Inspired a Generation of Young Viewers

The strong, courageous character of Moana resonated with audiences of all ages, inspiring a new generation of young viewers.

Moana Won Several Awards

Moana received numerous awards, including the BAFTA Award for Best Animated Film and the Critics’ Choice Movie Award for Best Animated Feature.

Moana’s Character Represents Resilience

Moana’s unwavering determination and resilience in the face of challenges make her a positive role model for viewers.

The Film Celebrates Polynesian Culture

Moana shines a spotlight on the rich and diverse cultures of the Pacific Islands, fostering appreciation and understanding.

Moana Features Unique Mythical Creatures

From the mischievous Kakamora to the benevolent ocean spirit, Moana introduces audiences to a fascinating array of mythical creatures.

The Film’s Soundtrack Was a Hit

The soundtrack of Moana was a commercial success, with songs like “You’re Welcome” and “Shiny” resonating with audiences.

Moana Breaks Stereotypical Disney Princess Mold

Moana defies the traditional Disney princess archetype, standing out as a strong and independent heroine.

The Movie’s Animation Was Hand-Drawn

Some of the film’s animation, particularly the scenes involving Maui’s tattoos, were hand-drawn to achieve a unique visual effect.

Moana Encourages Cultural Appreciation

The film promotes cultural appreciation and respect for diverse traditions, fostering a sense of unity among viewers.

Moana’s Journey Mirrors the Hero’s Journey

Moana’s journey follows the classic hero’s journey narrative structure, as she faces trials, finds mentors, and ultimately undergoes transformation.

The Voices of Moana Were Recorded in Various Locations

Different recording studios were used to capture the voices of the actors portraying the characters of Moana in order to maintain authenticity.

Moana Received Positive Audience Reviews

Moana resonated with audiences worldwide, receiving overwhelmingly positive reviews and high ratings.

The Film Features Stunning Visual Effects

The breathtaking visual effects in Moana bring the Pacific Islands to life, immersing viewers in a vibrant and magical world.

Moana Continues to Inspire and Entertain

Even years after its release, Moana continues to captivate audiences with its powerful messages, memorable characters, and captivating storyline.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Moana is an incredible Disney animated film that has captured the hearts of both children and adults alike. Its stunning animation, memorable characters, and powerful storytelling have made it one of the most beloved movies of recent years. The film’s exploration of themes such as courage, determination, and self-discovery resonates with audiences around the world. With its catchy songs and beautiful visuals, Moana transports viewers to an enchanting Polynesian world full of adventure and magic. Whether you’re a fan of animated movies or simply looking for an uplifting and entertaining film, Moana is definitely a must-watch.

FAQs

1. Who is the main character in Moana?

Moana, also known as Vaiana in some regions, is the courageous and determined young daughter of the chief of Motunui. She sets sail on a daring journey to save her people and discover her true identity.

2. Is Moana a princess?

While Moana is often referred to as a princess, she is not a typical Disney princess. Unlike the traditional princesses, Moana is more of a hero and leader who embarks on a personal quest rather than seeking romance or a royal title.

3. Does Moana have a love interest?

No, Moana does not have a love interest in the movie. The focus of the film is on Moana’s adventure, self-discovery, and her relationship with the demigod Maui.

4. Are there any hidden Easter eggs in Moana?

Yes, like many Disney films, Moana has some hidden Easter eggs. One notable Easter egg is a brief appearance of the character Sven from Frozen during the song “We Know the Way.” Keep an eye out for these fun nods to other Disney movies!

5. Is Moana based on a true story?

While Moana draws inspiration from the legends and culture of the Polynesian people, it is not based on a specific true story. The filmmakers worked closely with Pacific Islander consultants to ensure an authentic portrayal of the culture.

6. What is the significance of the character Maui?

Maui is a demigod in Polynesian mythology and plays a crucial role in Moana’s journey. He possesses shape-shifting powers and helps Moana navigate the challenges she faces. Maui’s character represents strength, bravery, and the importance of finding one’s identity.

Moana's captivating story and stunning animation have left audiences wanting more. If you're curious about the film's colorful characters, like Tamatoa, the flamboyant coconut crab, head over to our article exploring 12 intriguing facts about this memorable sidekick. From his larger-than-life personality to his love for shiny objects, there's plenty to discover about Tamatoa and his role in Moana's epic adventure. So, if you're ready to dive deeper into the world of Moana, click on the link and prepare to be entertained by this charismatic crustacean.

Was this page helpful?

Our commitment to delivering trustworthy and engaging content is at the heart of what we do. Each fact on our site is contributed by real users like you, bringing a wealth of diverse insights and information. To ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability, our dedicated editors meticulously review each submission. This process guarantees that the facts we share are not only fascinating but also credible. Trust in our commitment to quality and authenticity as you explore and learn with us.