I am Moana...sadly I'm not, but after watching Disney's live action Moana (2026, Thomas Kail), I want to be. Over the past ten years or so Disney have been reimagining their animated classics, whilst fans eagerly await the next film to be remade critic's tend to react less favourably. Even those critics cannot deny that there is something about Disney magic that is captivating. These reimagined films invoke a sense of nostalgia whilst delivering a fresh perspective. Unlike most of the remakes, Moana (2016, John Musker and Ron Clements), only hit cinema's ten years ago, it has barely aged, so updates to views, characters and storylines would be unnecessary. That being said there is a certain charm to Moana that is fully captured in this reimagining. Read on for my full review.
There is one potential issue with the film, so let's get that out of the way now because every single review is going to touch on this. This live action Moana is pretty much a shot for shot remake of the animated film. Whilst some may see this as an issue, others will celebrate the faithful adaptation of a beloved film. Whilst everything seems the same there are some great nuances that come with the lice action medium. Moana lives in an equal society where gender roles and expectations do not exist, its noticeable in the animated film but its impactful and powerful to experience this in live action. It's a small thing, but the implications are huge and it's refreshing to see this type of society dynamic in a live action film. The showcase of culture is breathtaking. It is incredible to see this world and characters brought to life in live action, whilst keeping the magic and whimsy of an animated film. The story may be the same, but the experience is entirely different.
The sheer magic of this film lies in its exceptional cinematography. Óscar Faura, beautifully captures the characters and the landscape, bringing viewers so close to the action and the ocean, that it feels as if you could reach out and touch it. The way the camera sweeps through the film is almost a mimic of the sea, it flows and ebbs, moving quickly in tense scenes, then slowing. Moana is more than a story about a girl saving her island, it is about the land and the ocean as well and Faura does a wonderful job of capturing that. Woven throughout are some fantastic transitions and creative cuts which sure the film into an enchanting spectacle. Beyond this, every shot is a feast for the eyes, full of bright colours and well-crafted scenery. This is what is so great about Disney live-actions, nothing can beat this level of production value.
Elsewhere, Dwayne Johnson reprises his role as the Demigod Maui. The first five or ten minutes of his screen time are a little jarring due to the wig, but as the film progresses you are able to move past it. Maui seems more impressive in live action; the size of Johnson is striking and his performance is faultless. His tattoos are brought to life well although they feature a little less. Moana is played by newcomer Catherine Laga'aia, who does a brilliant job of bringing Moana to life, she is able to interact with Johnson well to provide audiences with a compelling performance. Of the wider cast Rena Owen steals the screen playing Gramma Tala and whilst Frankie Adams plays Moana's mother Sina well, it's a shame to see Hollywood still employing such a young actress to play the mother of a 19 year old. Beyond the live action cast, Heihei the rather stupid rooster is funnier than ever, and the Ocean has more involvement and personality which added another layer of fun to the film.
Overall, Moana is a triumph! It's fun, exciting and brilliantly shot. An explosion of colour, nature and adventure that audiences will love! Hitting the cinemas at the start of Summer, Moana is the perfect film to watch when you want to avoid the heat and enjoy a bit of cinema aircon. This reimagined live action Moana is sensational! A must watch.
5 stars.
Thank you for reading xx
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