"Moana" Is The BEST Disney Movie, And Here Are 8 Reasons Why You Can't Argue With Me

Moana is no damsel in distress.

Disney loves to depict a classic damsel in distress. While Moana is a damsel, who finds herself in much distress, she does not count on a Prince Charming to come save her. Moana is the first Disney movie to present a strong, independent princess who has a strong cultural identity that is included in her story. The movie also tackles the sensitive subject of masculinity and other social issues.

1. Moana wants adventure

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Moana craves for life beyond the island. Her name translates to "sea beyond the reef, ocean" in proto-Polynesian (Tamaira & Fonoti, 2018). Similar to other princesses such as Ariel, Moana yearns to break the mold of the life set out for her. However, unlike the mermaid, Moana does it for the good of her island, not for a man. Moana creates a sense of independence that is too often lost for princess tropes.

2. Moana learns about her culture

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Moana learns about life and legends through stories told by elders. Historically, Polynesians did not have a written language, so these stories were passed down “through song, chant, dance, theater, and art, and were transmitted to successive generations, each one adding its own embellishments over the centuries” (Tamaira, 2018). Moana also learns of her village's history of voyaging through a song that plays while she is in the cave. This is important to her character because Polynesian tradition plays a big role in the overall movie arc.

3. Moana has a realistic body type

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Moana has a realistic body type that is not found in any other Disney princess. Her face is rounder, and not as chiseled as many other princesses. Her torso is wider than many other princesses, and her legs are shorter and thicker than any other Disney princess depiction. This breaks the gendered body stereotypes that Disney has ingrained in their princesses. Moana defies the ideas of traditional beauty but still remains a beautiful young girl.

4. Moana challenges the patriarchy

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Moana’s island has a long history of a patriarchal chief. Moana breaks the gender norms by becoming the village’s first female chief. This shows a shift in female dominance on the island. Moana’s grandmother and role model also challenges the rules of the patriarchy telling Moana to go on her adventure. Her free spirit is instilled in Moana and encourages her to break free and make her own rules.

5. Moana is a leader

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Moana becomes a leader of her village at the end of the film, as stated before. However, Moana still maintains a sense of leadership and persistence that challenges the typical role of Disney princesses. Similar to Mulan or Merida, Moana challenges the life that is set out for her. These princesses all challenge the gender tropes thrust upon them by a patriarchal society. Moana is able to stand up on her own without a love storyline. Moana stands up for herself and is persistent enough to achieve her dreams.

6. Moana addresses climate issues

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On the island, the coconuts and their main crops have been plagued by disease. All of their resources are being depleted. This is a symbol of climate change. Moana’s father does not believe that their island will run out of resources because it has never happened before. This is a reflection of our society. The older generation tends to be more hesitant to address issues related to climate change because it wasn’t a problem present to them. Moana takes it upon herself to find a solution, to bring health back to her island’s resources.

7. Moana tackles hypermasculinity

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The demigod, Maui, is a main character in the film. Maui projects many hypermasculine traits. He has the stereotypical muscular body type, he is aggressive in taking the heart of Te Fiti, and craves the power that comes from the heart. All of these traits exhibit hegemonic masculinity. This is the first portrayal of men in the film, and characters like the Chief, Moana’s father, hold similar traits in body type and power-seeking.

8. Moana tackles male fragility

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As stated before, Maui was characterized as a hegemonic male, extremely masculine. However, as the movie progresses, the audience sees a more feminine side of Maui. This side explores feelings of fear, fragility, and a lack of confidence. This counteracts most of what Maui’s character represents. The character development exposes the idea of male fragility. Even though Maui looks like the big, macho, man, he too has fears and self-confidence issues.

Did you notice any other reasons she's the best? Or maybe you disagree with me. Let me know in the comments below!