Moana

7

TheQuietGamerMay 5, 2017

A gorgeously animated Disney original that shows off the companies ability to diversify their offerings even further with a tale based on Polynesian mythology. It teaches familiar morals about following your heart and finding out who you are.A gorgeously animated Disney original that shows off the companies ability to diversify their offerings even further with a tale based on Polynesian mythology. It teaches familiar morals about following your heart and finding out who you are. Standard themes, but it's presented in a fresh package. A seriously pretty package. I can't praise the animation enough.

The story moves at a brisk pace, jumping from set-piece to set-piece with flashy exuberance. It's a lot like a sugar rush. The result is a constantly entertaining ride, but it means that things aren't as fleshed out story and character wise as some of Disney's other offerings. Everything is solid enough to carry the film though.

It's also a very funny film, as one would expect. Everything is up to par in the presentation department. As I said the visuals are stunning. The voice acting is spot-on. Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson in particular is fantastic. His likability transfers over to animated movies quite well. The musical numbers are fine, but just like the rest of Disney's more modern animated films, they don't have what it takes to be truly memorable for years to come.

Suffice to say that it's another highly enjoyable Disney movie for the whole family. It shows their willingness to expand into new avenues and tackle styles. It's a little disappointing that they couldn't come up with something a little fresher for the morals though. Perfect for families, parents and kids alike no matter their age.

7.4/10… Expand

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7

Iky009Mar 2, 2017

I think I'll hardly ever be able to hate a Disney movie, I try harder, but I can not (except Chicken Little, it's bad it hurts, even in the soul). Moana pretty much shows the same essence of previous works (wow, that's pretty obvious),I think I'll hardly ever be able to hate a Disney movie, I try harder, but I can not (except Chicken Little, it's bad it hurts, even in the soul). Moana pretty much shows the same essence of previous works (wow, that's pretty obvious), visually gorgeous, charismatic characters, a cool story and full of adventures. As cool as Moana is, it's far from being a masterpiece or even above average, but I must agree to one thing, the songs from the Disney movies remain sensational.… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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7

Compi24Jun 10, 2017

Lavish animation and soundtrack work elevate this considerably imaginative, if thematically familiar entry in Disney's pantheon of animated princess tales. Strong vocal performances by both Auli'i Cravalho and Dwayne Johnson also help powerLavish animation and soundtrack work elevate this considerably imaginative, if thematically familiar entry in Disney's pantheon of animated princess tales. Strong vocal performances by both Auli'i Cravalho and Dwayne Johnson also help power this breezy, mythologically-charged fable through the occasional narrative rough patch. Just don't put a lotta' stake in seeing much of that cute, little pig. Seriously that thing is literally in two scenes, tops.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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7

LeZeeFeb 26, 2017

Girl finds out the true identity of her people.

Okay, I shocked when I heard this film did not get the Oscars nod, except for a song. Now I have seen the film and I come to know why. This is a one liner, but developed into a longer versionGirl finds out the true identity of her people.

Okay, I shocked when I heard this film did not get the Oscars nod, except for a song. Now I have seen the film and I come to know why. This is a one liner, but developed into a longer version Except the initial parts, this film is like a limited cast/character film. Most of the film takes place in the sea sailing around fighting evil force to break the curse. But at the end, you would feel this kind of story is not worth for a feature film. It looks a perfect short animation theme.

Disney never disappoints its fans, well, for me. So I enjoyed it, it was fun and entertaining, but too simple. The characters were cute, this is a wonderful film for kids and some grownups would too enjoy it. But this is not for all, unlike most of the Disney animations are. Dwayne's voice lending for one of the lead characters was good, but the girl steals the show. Especially if you are a kid and/or a girl.

The best film since 'Lilo & Stitch' on the similar theme about Pacific islands' people. But it reminded me 'Whale Rider'. Overall, I think the story should have been improved a bit, in particular by including a few more characters at least for the partial appearances. This is not the best animation of the year, also definitely the bad one to skip. If your purpose of the watch is entertainment/timepass, it is good at that.

6½/10… Expand

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7

FadeBlackApr 4, 2017

A very colorful movie, very pleasant to watch...but bare to the bones story really. Saturday morning cartoon quality, no real conflict of any kind really. I mean, it's a neat uplifting movie, but really without the Disney brand stapled to itA very colorful movie, very pleasant to watch...but bare to the bones story really. Saturday morning cartoon quality, no real conflict of any kind really. I mean, it's a neat uplifting movie, but really without the Disney brand stapled to it no one would give it a second thought.… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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7

moviemitch96Dec 13, 2016

A fun, dazzling, pretty to look at, albeit predictable and formulaic effort from Disney. While the voice talent from Dwayne Johnson and Auli'i Cravalho was perfectly suited and like I said, the film had gorgeous animation throughout, theA fun, dazzling, pretty to look at, albeit predictable and formulaic effort from Disney. While the voice talent from Dwayne Johnson and Auli'i Cravalho was perfectly suited and like I said, the film had gorgeous animation throughout, the setup of the story was simply too formulaic and predictable throughout for my liking. I always found myself knowing what was likely gonna happen next and the film really took no risks or tried anything new in terms of the plot and main conflict. Overall, it's a fun little film while it lasts but I really didn't find myself loving it like most did. Simply put, I thought it was good not great and Disney has certainly impressed me far more with some of their other films, like Zootopia from earlier this year for example.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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7

marc5477Mar 3, 2017

A good musical and another good money maker for Disney. Dont expect much in terms of plot or story telling, but like many other Disney musicals, the tunes are simple, catchy and all around fun to listen to. The story is about the future chiefA good musical and another good money maker for Disney. Dont expect much in terms of plot or story telling, but like many other Disney musicals, the tunes are simple, catchy and all around fun to listen to. The story is about the future chief of a tribe that is suffering from impeding famine due to degrading natural resources. Apparently, this was happening because the goddess of nature lost her heart so the future chief gets on a boat and sets out to return the heart to the goddess. She is aided by the ocean gods (or whatever that entity is) and enlists the help of a demi-god (Maui) to help her. The story is not good. For instance, the ocean itself could have accomplished all the goals trivially if it wanted to but instead it got a weak human and a half god to do work which would have taken it literally, a few seconds to accomplish. But this is Disney, so you have to leave your brain at home. Overall the movie is fun hence the good score and kids will have a great time with the music and characters (my 2 year old loved it). I think its time for Disney to change Star Wars to a musical... whats left of it that is...… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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7

pardogatoDec 27, 2016

Despite its strange homage to Mad Max Fury Road placed to set up clearly the role and band of the co-protagonist, Moana is a surprisingly sound tale build from fragments of several tales common to the Pacific cultures. A strong similarityDespite its strange homage to Mad Max Fury Road placed to set up clearly the role and band of the co-protagonist, Moana is a surprisingly sound tale build from fragments of several tales common to the Pacific cultures. A strong similarity with the Deer God duality from Miyazaki's Mononoke Hime at the end of the film is unsurprising because of the shared folk tales used as source. With two skippable musical scenes, this is the very best animated film from Disney since Up.… Expand

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7

CarFan1999Dec 12, 2016

Long story short, Moana was nowhere near as good as Zootopia was, but still nice. The songs were great, the animation was some of the finest computer animation that I had ever seen, and the characters were enjoyable. However, what held itLong story short, Moana was nowhere near as good as Zootopia was, but still nice. The songs were great, the animation was some of the finest computer animation that I had ever seen, and the characters were enjoyable. However, what held it back was the story. The story was very predictable, simplistic, and the side characters weren't interesting.… Expand

4 of 7 users found this helpful43

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7

J2005Nov 24, 2016

The film's heart is in the right place, it is animated beautifully, and it breaks mold by introducing a princess that does not chance after a man.
The humor, however, plays on the same type of joke of slapstick and potty joke and makes littleThe film's heart is in the right place, it is animated beautifully, and it breaks mold by introducing a princess that does not chance after a man.
The humor, however, plays on the same type of joke of slapstick and potty joke and makes little to no sense. The songs also don't do much to contribute to the story.
Moana is like that PG&J sandwich that is eaten just to be eaten. Good, but not perfect.… Expand

8 of 12 users found this helpful84

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7

TrevorsViewDec 9, 2016

Faithful to the tradition of Disney’s renaissance era, Moana takes audiences of all ages on a journey with a resourceful young woman who learns her place in the world. Parents will love the tribute toward Polynesian culture, while kids willFaithful to the tradition of Disney’s renaissance era, Moana takes audiences of all ages on a journey with a resourceful young woman who learns her place in the world. Parents will love the tribute toward Polynesian culture, while kids will love the fantastical journey made complete with a fresh color palette. Other than an inappropriately placed gag about urination, Moana has established itself as yet another family-friendly hit by the Disney studio within their CGI renaissance.

The wide range of animation styles explored here starts with a two-dimensional storytelling of what Polynesian religion believes brought the islands into existence. In what appears to be a moving tapestry, a wise, grandmotherly voiceover tells us of Mother Island, who raised islands out of the sea and then rested among them. That is, until Maui the shapeshifting demigod stole her heart. Along his path away from Mother Island, he lost the heart, as well as his fish hook that allows him to shapeshift.

Then the animation style switches to the traditional computer animation, where an elderly storyteller is speaking to her grandchildren about the story. The one seated in the middle of the pack, the heroine of our story, immediately goes out onto the seashore, where the miraculously animated living water leads her through conch shells to the heart of Mother Island itself: the ocean called her to restore peace to the land.

Then this toddler grows up to become Moana, daughter of the chief who wishes to sway away from their traditional ways in order to explore the world. She’s a typical kid’s movie heroine we’ve seen countless times before, and her motive to defy authority is not a good message for our kids, but the empowering musical voice by Auli'i Cravalho plenty makes up for that.

Her grandmother pushes her to follow the calling by the ocean to find Maui the demigod so that she can help him retrieve his fish hook and return the heart to Mother Island. It follows out of the tradition followed by her people, as they are not voyagers; but their long-forgotten ancestry says otherwise. Therefore, Moana goes out on the quest, with a google-eyed, dim-witted chicken as her sole companion.

Then she meets Maui himself, voiced with a lovable laid-back nature by Dwayne Johnson. He adds the familiar heart and soul expected from any Disney feature, as his tattoos move individually to express his true feelings.

Now with the demigod on her voyage, Moana travels elsewhere to find his hook and get to Mother Island. Such stops include an underwater world of fantasy that houses a giant gold-crazy hermit crab. He is not one of the more tolerable portions of the adventure though, as his modes of dialogue includes rambling without a clear punchline to whatever joke he’s attempting to deliver, and an out of place song sung in the style of Paul McCartney.

This is among one of the other songs that simply sound odd in melody. Even so, there are several hits in the score, including Moana’s single ballad, “How Far I'll Go,” and the catchy “We Know the Way,” both of which are guaranteed Oscar nominations. Yet none of these songs will catch on as one of Disney’s iconic tunes. In addition, anytime the characters are not singing, they are blatantly telling us through not-so-subtle foreshadowing what will happen later on.

Another thing that is difficult to grasp about Moana is the big “so what” of its celebration towards pagan religion. While yes, we should never be afraid to learn about other cultures and their backgrounds, depicting their gods as truth is not the answer to learning about who these people are. I would like for Disney to someday make a big leap in exploring and faithfully retelling the way those of another culture live their day to day lives, as to make up for their poor treatment of non-White races in the past.

I cannot see Moana becoming a celebrated classic like Beauty and the Beast, The Lion King, or The Little Mermaid, nor can I see it largely influencing pop culture like Frozen or Zootopia, but it is still a fresh adventure for the young and young at heart to get the ideal expected Disney experience.… Expand

3 of 8 users found this helpful35

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7

VirgonoShakaMay 13, 2017

This movie is everything I've come to expect from a Disney movie, with the good and bad that comes with that. From the excellent animation, good to great music, interesting and clearly well researched character models, but also with a prettyThis movie is everything I've come to expect from a Disney movie, with the good and bad that comes with that. From the excellent animation, good to great music, interesting and clearly well researched character models, but also with a pretty predictable and non-risk story that is the part with a traditional disney movie, and all the tropes and cliches you expect (from the animal sidecharacters, the "funny" one song, the heroes having a fallout, and the misunderstood character that wants more, and even disney making fun of itself). So all in all, it's disney doing disney, embracing their method that almost all the time works, and produces quality works, but comes with the baggage of everything that came before. Something that on other circumstances could be considered a great or even excellent animated movie, for the house of the mouse ends up being average. So all in all, with a couple of songs that i'm humming right now, some memorable character moments, and a story that I knew every step of the way what was going to happen, this ends up being a good movie, but that doesn't go that far beyond the reef. For fans of disney or just a good day in family watching, definitely recommended. For someone that is not that much into the traditional animated movies, maybe give it a checking, but nothing you haven't seen before.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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7

SomePersonaJan 1, 2017

This movie is Disney-Princess cliché after Disney-Princess cliché. Special girl with cool powers? Check. Dumb/friendly animal sidekick? Check. Awesome strong sidekick? Check. Story about discovering yourself/ love/ whatever? Check. AudienceThis movie is Disney-Princess cliché after Disney-Princess cliché. Special girl with cool powers? Check. Dumb/friendly animal sidekick? Check. Awesome strong sidekick? Check. Story about discovering yourself/ love/ whatever? Check. Audience humor (humor that is dumb enough for dumb audience members)? Check.

This is no surprise of course; this is the same team of directors behind every Disney movie ever (hyperbole). However, this movie is lifted by smooth animation (especially those tattoos that were traditionally animated), creative sequences, an awesome soundtrack, nice voice-work, and the general backgrounds and settings that carry the film. All of these elements elevate this dumb, lazy, and boring movie (in terms of the writing and direction) enough that it is good.

It's also better than Frozen if you're worrying about that.… Expand

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7

sensorglitchJan 9, 2017

There are some movies which are made for kids but also have things that make it so adults can sit through them without being bored. This movie was not ne of those. If you are an adult with a child by all means go and see this movie, it willThere are some movies which are made for kids but also have things that make it so adults can sit through them without being bored. This movie was not ne of those. If you are an adult with a child by all means go and see this movie, it will be a great movie for your children. But don't expect it to appeal to you very much.… Expand

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7

kalasynMar 6, 2017

The music is a standout (with the possible exception of the dud "Shiny"), and Moana's world shines with authenticity and care. The people, ships, animals, costumes all give a taste of Islander life, and I wish that potential felt moreThe music is a standout (with the possible exception of the dud "Shiny"), and Moana's world shines with authenticity and care. The people, ships, animals, costumes all give a taste of Islander life, and I wish that potential felt more realized throughout the film. Several of the recurring gags (tattoo man, the chicken) fell flat for me and weren't handled with typical Disney deftness. A movie I would happy to watch again, though nowhere near the quality of monster-hit Frozen.… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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7

BionicMattMay 1, 2017

Brilliantly scores and beautifully animated, but let down by its lacklustre characters. While Maui learns to appreciate humans' ability to do great things, Moana starts and ends the film as a perfect princess, and thus has no growing room.Brilliantly scores and beautifully animated, but let down by its lacklustre characters. While Maui learns to appreciate humans' ability to do great things, Moana starts and ends the film as a perfect princess, and thus has no growing room. Disney again shows it can make grand spectacles. Younger audiences and fans of emotionally-charged musical numbers will enjoy this film, but if you want a story, you may leave feeling disappointed.… Expand

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7

jdiazMar 12, 2017

How Far I'll Go - Shiny
Beautiful animation - Stupid climax
Some interesting characters - Some very annoying characters

The great music and animation barely compensate the negative things.

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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7

LivingTribunalApr 22, 2019

Another good movie from Disney. However, it could have been better in terms of story and theme. Soundtrack is amazing, but just not good as Tangled or Frozen. It was like I was in a dream.

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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6

GiakiMay 24, 2017

But where is the pornstar actress Moana? Disappointed all along the 150 characters long and beyond. Pozzi 123456 caco io e puzzi lei. Bored to reach 150 characters

4 of 11 users found this helpful47

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6

miastalmanNov 25, 2016

Heh. I had so high hopes after Zootopia, but that movie did not met them. Imagine a book, that is really good book, with good plot, good characters and good settings, but when you finish that book you feel something is odd, that book was tooHeh. I had so high hopes after Zootopia, but that movie did not met them. Imagine a book, that is really good book, with good plot, good characters and good settings, but when you finish that book you feel something is odd, that book was too long, the begging was way too slow and some its "crucial" aspects like songs were overused.… Expand

8 of 16 users found this helpful88

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6

JabberwocksBaneNov 28, 2016

The visuals are absolutely gorgeous - the songs (except for the crab's) are very enjoyable, catchy and fun

other than that however, it's a paint by numbers Disney Movie, but unlike many of the other disney movies twhere it isn't THAT obviosuThe visuals are absolutely gorgeous - the songs (except for the crab's) are very enjoyable, catchy and fun

other than that however, it's a paint by numbers Disney Movie, but unlike many of the other disney movies twhere it isn't THAT obviosu and they do twists and turns on their formula - THIS ONE feels like something you've seen a hundred times before

I'd say go see it but don't expect it to be the new Frozen… Expand

2 of 5 users found this helpful23

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6

davilima23Mar 20, 2017

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Filme bem mediano comparado com outros do mesmo seguimento, claro da pra assistir! Animação legalzinho né, Não é um dos melhores porem também não é um dos piores.… Expand

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

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6

EpicLadySpongeNov 23, 2016

Disney's sharp with Moana is increasing to make it come to the point where this movie can't even be enjoyed completely what it should've been expected. Dwayne Johnson tries his very best in his sudden appearance, but he tries a little off theDisney's sharp with Moana is increasing to make it come to the point where this movie can't even be enjoyed completely what it should've been expected. Dwayne Johnson tries his very best in his sudden appearance, but he tries a little off the scale. Comparing this to Disney's previous installment, this intends to be a letdown and it did.… Expand

9 of 20 users found this helpful911

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6

buzzsparkApr 15, 2018

Incredible animation, but it's just so ..lacking. It feels empty. A little more substance and originality could've turned this into a really solid experience for me

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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6

All_ButTrU4Jul 5, 2022

Extremely fun and spell binding story of a brave princess on a quest to save her people. It involves Hawaiian mythology, a hilarious Dwayne Johnson and memorable songs to sing along to .

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

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6

sebastianaliMar 26, 2020

Bueno, me esperaba que por la ambientación que cuenta la historia de una tribu (cosa que a mi, esa clase de películas basadas en tribus me encantan) esperaba que fuera mejor. Los gráficos son muy buenos... Las canciones, no son malas... ElBueno, me esperaba que por la ambientación que cuenta la historia de una tribu (cosa que a mi, esa clase de películas basadas en tribus me encantan) esperaba que fuera mejor. Los gráficos son muy buenos... Las canciones, no son malas... El problema es que son excesivas y parecen estar de relleno mas que para acompañar bien de forma fluida la trama (un buen ejemplo es Aladdin). La historia me gusto en parte, ya que si bien la introducción es excelente, al final acaba siendo bastante genérica con el paso del tiempo. Una vez que Moana abandona su isla, ahí la calidad de la película baja bastante... Y es una pena la verdad. Y por ultimo, Maui si bien su personalidad se va desarrollando poco a poco, al principio es muy insoportable y no se puede en ningún momento establecer química entre ambos protagonistas. En conclusión, Moana tenia potencial, pero los gráficos no definen a una película buena, ni las canciones solamente... es una combinación de todo! Igualmente tengo que destacar las partes en las que aparece la abuela de Moana. Si que las disfrute mucho...… Expand

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6

FulanoJun 28, 2021

Filme legalzinho, só não gostei do fato de não ser o Mauí que devolveu o coração da deusa lá, pois o filme inteiro deu a entender que seria isto.

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6

BowLLNov 22, 2020

although good with the storyline and the conflict and solution, i can't really get with some of the characters that aren't contributing much or just are so obnoxious to hear or see.

musics good, and all that, but man the characters arealthough good with the storyline and the conflict and solution, i can't really get with some of the characters that aren't contributing much or just are so obnoxious to hear or see.

musics good, and all that, but man the characters are sometimes just obnoxious from my perspective.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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5

MCS33Dec 3, 2016

The first half of the movie was great and then it dragged on for the second half, with the story spiriling all over the place. I was in a theater full of children and at the halfway mark the movie lost them...they were getting up and runningThe first half of the movie was great and then it dragged on for the second half, with the story spiriling all over the place. I was in a theater full of children and at the halfway mark the movie lost them...they were getting up and running around and generally bored. They got back into it at the end. The animation was lovely but the story got too convoluted for children and it was too long. These kiddos were in the 7-10 range. That is my barometer for a children's movie and I always try to go and see them with an auditorium full of children. Also the music and lyrics were not very catch like you like in a Children's film. Disappointing.… Expand

2 of 5 users found this helpful23

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5

SEROJFeb 26, 2017

I don't think Moana will remain in my memory as one of the reasons why Disney is the number 1 animation studio in the world. So predictable and typical.

3 of 6 users found this helpful33

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5

Eaj6Oct 8, 2019

A good, wholesome movie for the family. Songs and other minuscule details are not needed. However, Hawaiian and Polynesian stories and tales add to a somewhat folklore touch to the movie.

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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4

Eilidh2Nov 23, 2016

I don't know what film the critics saw given the superlative reviews on here, but Moana was the most disappointing Disney film in a long time. The story was, frankly boring, and still managed to be difficult to follow for kids and the parentsI don't know what film the critics saw given the superlative reviews on here, but Moana was the most disappointing Disney film in a long time. The story was, frankly boring, and still managed to be difficult to follow for kids and the parents who, when asked, 'why did she do that?' had to say 'no idea'. Why did she keep falling in the water? Who knows? Was it supposed to be funny? Who knows?

Moana's a pretty generic Disney princess heroine (despite the fact she is, to differentiate her from every other Disney princess heroine, only the daughter of a chief), full of moxie (as per usual Disney princess heroine) who must do something to save her island.. or learn something about herself.. or.. I'm not sure!

The Rock is marginally amusing as the comic relief. He isn't helped by the dumb jokes he's given. The young actress voicing Moana does her best but isn't noteworthy (I think she was a non-professional and it shows.. or is heard).

Lin-Manuel Miranda, who has done such a majestic job with Hamilton, hasn't done himself proud here. The songs just drag on. One song is the chirpy 'You're Welcome' sung by the Rock. It's catchy if nothing else.

Frozen's a hard act for a Disney musical to follow, but Moana doesn't even try.… Expand

7 of 16 users found this helpful79

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4

DC0Mar 9, 2017

Rather dull movie. Plot is primitive, movie should be 20 minutes long maximum. So many songs. Too many songs. Males are dumb, lazy and frightened. Two ladies are courageous and adventurous. Though one of them is confirmed rustic fool. SecondRather dull movie. Plot is primitive, movie should be 20 minutes long maximum. So many songs. Too many songs. Males are dumb, lazy and frightened. Two ladies are courageous and adventurous. Though one of them is confirmed rustic fool. Second is Moana. But she saves the world in the end. Movie by feminists for feminists.… Expand

2 of 4 users found this helpful22

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4

Jaker747Oct 5, 2018

It has good animation, but it is too predictable, cliche, and cringeworthy to be considered a great movie.

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

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3

ignore78Mar 21, 2018

OVERRATED! Great! animations with weak story! if you know Aladdin and Lion king this is nothing like that. This feels boring and not good at all. And the music is bad. except for 2 songs. the crab song and moanas song that they HAD to play 3OVERRATED! Great! animations with weak story! if you know Aladdin and Lion king this is nothing like that. This feels boring and not good at all. And the music is bad. except for 2 songs. the crab song and moanas song that they HAD to play 3 times to fill out with.… Expand

2 of 5 users found this helpful23

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3

Lennon-SDec 2, 2017

I still remember that day when Zootopia won the Academy Award and all the crying that happened afterwards! People saying Zootopia “stole” it from Moana... Really? How on earth did ANYONE find this special? It’s the same plot followed by anyI still remember that day when Zootopia won the Academy Award and all the crying that happened afterwards! People saying Zootopia “stole” it from Moana... Really? How on earth did ANYONE find this special? It’s the same plot followed by any number of other Disney princess films with lots of pretty CGI thrown in! And speaking from above take a look at how many awards Zootopia won (40+) compared to Moana (less than 20) and tell me again who deserves that Oscar and what really was the best Animated film of 2016!… Expand

0 of 6 users found this helpful06

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3

TribidenadaPakJul 20, 2017

Moana grabs from a culture ripe with unique stories and narratives to tell, but does completely nothing with it--which is frustrating. The film follows every device and mechanism layed out by every other movie prior to it and somehow playsMoana grabs from a culture ripe with unique stories and narratives to tell, but does completely nothing with it--which is frustrating. The film follows every device and mechanism layed out by every other movie prior to it and somehow plays with them with even more lethargy. It's painfully obvious and predictable. Personally, I wouldn't recommend it just to save the person from an hour and 53 minutes of unrewarding tedium… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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3

TeoenLDec 27, 2016

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This movie is pointless. The entire movie revolves around her beating Te Ka, aka a lava monster, in order to return the stone, but this goal could have been so easily achieved. Moana was loved by the ocean, and during the entire movie, all I was thinking was, "Couldn't the ocean just automatically take her to where they were suppose to go, since it was able to do that for her in Maui's case? Could't the ocean just defeat the lava monster, since it was unable to touch the water? If the ocean was able to make a pathway of water in the end scene, then why couldn't it help moana earlier?" I realize that it would defeat the purpose of the ending part with the volcano being the goddess, but throughout the entire movie I kept thinking that the movie's entire conflict could have been solved very very easily, so what was the point of prolonging it for so long?… Expand

9 of 17 users found this helpful98

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2

MathildeNov 24, 2016

Loved Frozen and seeing the reviews on here, figured Moana was a worthy follow up. I thought Zootopia was a great step forward for Disney. One step forward, two steps back. Moana's storyline is perfunctory so the film is full of padding withLoved Frozen and seeing the reviews on here, figured Moana was a worthy follow up. I thought Zootopia was a great step forward for Disney. One step forward, two steps back. Moana's storyline is perfunctory so the film is full of padding with forgettable songs and repetitive action. It plays much more like a Disney straight to video than a theatrical release. The animation isn't even on par with recent Disney films. This is the first Disney film in a long time that isn't emotionally engaging. Dwight Johnson does his best with the jokey lines he's given, but nobody could save those jokes.… Expand

8 of 21 users found this helpful813

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1

FalconXNov 23, 2016

Coming off of Frozen and Big Hero Six this was a huge disappointment. The story feels like it was made by the direct-to-video C Team. Where is John Lasseter when you need him? It was better than Chicken Little I suppose. Wait for video, rentComing off of Frozen and Big Hero Six this was a huge disappointment. The story feels like it was made by the direct-to-video C Team. Where is John Lasseter when you need him? It was better than Chicken Little I suppose. Wait for video, rent it for $1 from red box or something. So sad about this, I wanted it to be great.… Expand

10 of 23 users found this helpful1013

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1

testmetaNov 28, 2016

dange(Nov 27, 2016
Oh my God. This movie is so damn good. It’s not just good, actually. It’s a masterpiece. The music is perfect - we're talking about the best Disney musical in the last 20 years. Stunning animation. Likeable characters.dange(Nov 27, 2016
Oh my God. This movie is so damn good. It’s not just good, actually. It’s a masterpiece. The music is perfect - we're talking about the best Disney musical in the last 20 years. Stunning animation. Likeable characters. Impressive voice acting. A fun and emotional story. That’s MoanaL… Expand

1 of 14 users found this helpful113

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TVJerryDec 6, 2016

Moana is the name of a teenager who lives on her South Pacific island with her family. When the ocean calls to her, she sets out for an adventure where she teams up with a plucky demi-god (voiced by Dwayne Johnson). The story is prettyMoana is the name of a teenager who lives on her South Pacific island with her family. When the ocean calls to her, she sets out for an adventure where she teams up with a plucky demi-god (voiced by Dwayne Johnson). The story is pretty standard: full of positive empowerment for girls and culturally-appropriate references, but the beautiful animation and wondrous character design boost it's visual appeal. The inevitable sidekicks (a chicken and some tattoos) don't fall for the typical tropes and add another layer of delight. Toss in some catchy songs with typically-clever lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda (writer of "Hamilton") and the experience is even more enjoyable. The lively pace and spunky attitude combine with beautiful animation to make this movie fresh and fun. NOTE: Stay thru the credits for one final amusement.… Expand

1 of 14 users found this helpful113

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SkulbMar 8, 2017

My review of this garbage while trying to be funny has been censored. Fine, I will do it again without being funny. Moana is 100% feminist brainwashing and indoctrination, explaining to small children how boys and men are useless while girlsMy review of this garbage while trying to be funny has been censored. Fine, I will do it again without being funny. Moana is 100% feminist brainwashing and indoctrination, explaining to small children how boys and men are useless while girls and women are perfect and wise. It is crammed full of the most disgusting and inappropriate sexual symbolism and vile, poisonous messages for small children. It is a complete travesty that something like this can get published. If any of the people who reported my original review accidentally develop a brain in the future, please go protest the evil people at Disney rather than my use of anatomical terms on Metacritic.

Seriously, some perspective please. Horrible, divisive, society-destroying brainwashing vs using funny words for private parts in a Metacritic comment. I know which one I would be more upset by. Protect your children from this toxic stew! Anyone who lets their kids watch this movie is a terrible, terrible parent.

Clean enough this time, or are you going to report the truth to the moderators again?… Expand

7 of 16 users found this helpful79

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heloheDec 22, 2016

boring from beginning to end. idiotic singing without any artistic quality. pointless altogether. don't waste your time. if there were not all those songs all the time, maybe at least kids would enjoy it.

7 of 17 users found this helpful710

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SarossilliNov 26, 2016

Ten outta ten. Its not the typical Disney princess movie, but its still good. It also has a great soundtrack. Its gonna be like the new frozen soundtrack.

1 of 44 users found this helpful143

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NealAmandusDec 3, 2016

Moana is rich, colorful, lively, and full of spark. It is a good film, though it is not the best, most groundbreaking animated film. It's storytelling is generic with some slightly new twists. The music is good, but not heart wrenchinglyMoana is rich, colorful, lively, and full of spark. It is a good film, though it is not the best, most groundbreaking animated film. It's storytelling is generic with some slightly new twists. The music is good, but not heart wrenchingly powerful nor emotionally stirring. The animation is amazing, as expected. Moana herself is an endearing character, yet her story seems quite small and downplayed. However, it is Disney. It is, overall, a quality movie experience.

P.S. I loved the chicken.… Expand

3 of 14 users found this helpful311

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BarronOfDuneMay 31, 2017

GOOD
- The animation is competent, though none of the visuals are particularly groundbreaking or creative
- Disney learned long ago that if you give the main character ENORMOUS expressive eyes and make them charmingly klutzy it's easy to makeGOOD
- The animation is competent, though none of the visuals are particularly groundbreaking or creative
- Disney learned long ago that if you give the main character ENORMOUS expressive eyes and make them charmingly klutzy it's easy to make the audience like them. That more or less works here, but again, it's a very old formula by now and has become a crutch.
- The coconut pirates were amusing.

MEDIOCRE
- The songs are just meh. They're superficially catchy (not hard to achieve) but lack emotional engagement. Nothing comes remotely close to classic showstoppers like "Be Our Guest" or "A Whole New World".
- The Rock's performance as Maui is so-so, and I say that as a big fan of his. He's got a weird, offputting character design with beady little eyes, a caveman face, and no neck. Honestly he looked more like a villain than a hero.

AWFUL
- Moana is a huge Mary Sue and has no character arc (OK, she very briefly doubts herself, then instantly gets over it). She has no flaws to overcome and the only growth she experiences is learning to sail her boat. This is lazy, agenda-driven writing. You can't invest in a character if right out of the gate they're the smartest, bravest, free-spirited-est Chosen One of Prophecy and have no room to grow or lessons to learn. It's boring and reads like fanfiction.
- Meanwhile the main male characters, Moana's dad and Maui, are stupid, insecure, and pretty much useless. If a kids' movie did this to all its female characters people would be shrieking and gnashing their teeth.
- The themes are: 1) home and community and tradition are boring, so leave them all behind as soon as possible! 2) Kids should ignore their lame old parents and listen to their "inner voice" instead! Grown-ups just don't get it!
3) Men screw everything up, and only women can fix their mistakes! Grrrl power!
4) The source of all creation and life is actually a jolly green Gaia spirit! Screw Christianity, it doesn't have a soundtrack by Lin-Manuel Miranda!
- There's something ugly about a multinational corporation like Disney employing a bunch of render-farm nerds in Burbank to make a movie that exploits indigenous peoples for the sake of commercialized faux-exoticism. Maybe Pacific Islanders don't need a bunch of American business executives to make movies about them and slap the IP on lunchboxes and t-shirts. Maybe doing that is just a little presumptuous, even if they let a few of them do some voice work as a fig leaf.… Expand

8 of 16 users found this helpful88

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weiguyDec 21, 2017

It's generic. Very very generic. It's a cheap knock off of a good princess movie. The characters have great charisma, but if you're the type of person who likes a meaningful story and something memorable, you won't find it here. At best,It's generic. Very very generic. It's a cheap knock off of a good princess movie. The characters have great charisma, but if you're the type of person who likes a meaningful story and something memorable, you won't find it here. At best, you'll enjoy the visuals and the the voice acting (despite the characters being painfully shallow). Then the next day you'll forget all about it.… Expand

2 of 6 users found this helpful24

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Moana

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