I’m conflicted about the Moana live-action movie. On one hand, I kind of enjoyed it, and on the other, I don’t think we needed it.
The original Moana is, without a doubt, one of the best movies Disney has ever made, so why did it need a live-action remake? Well, money, of course. This movie has no reason to exist except to boost Disney’s box office success. That said, I do think it has a few redeeming qualities, so I won’t write it off just yet.
I actually kind of feel guilty that I like parts of it, but who knows, maybe people will understand where I’m coming from. The animated movie worked incredibly well, but as a live-action film, there’s a lot that didn’t translate to a real-world setting. I think the cast is amazing, I love the songs, and there are a few beautiful-looking shots, but I would’ve loved it even more if more of the movie had been shot on location.
The fact that it’s almost a shot-for-shot remake is actually one of the things I love about this movie. The reason is that it hits all the right emotional beats. At its core, the story remains the same, and that’s why I loved the original film so much. Moana is a lovable character, and her journey is beautiful.
They did change a few things here and there, like adding a few adult jokes that will hopefully go over the kids’ heads. There are also moments that didn’t translate well from the animated film, yet they still chose to include them. One of this movie’s biggest redeeming qualities, however, is the cast.
Catherine Laga’aia is phenomenal. I couldn’t think of anyone else who could’ve done a better job. Her screen presence is fantastic, and her singing is even better. Her chemistry with Dwayne Johnson is great, and speaking of The Rock, I was surprised his wig wasn’t washed away by the ocean. He’s great as Maui, but at the same time, his presence is a little distracting.
The rest of the cast is excellent, and I’m happy to report that their singing is great as well. As for the world around them, it looks a little too animated, and not in a good way. It’s obvious that most of this movie was filmed in front of green screens. The original film works not only because of the story, but because of the vibrant world we get to explore.
Unfortunately, this version doesn’t quite capture that. Some of the visual effects feel cheap, while others are fairly decent. I love that they kept Heihei’s design, but at the same time, it feels a little out of place in live action. I will say this, though: the scenes that were shot on location look incredible. The Pacific Ocean and its islands have so much natural beauty to offer, if only the studio executives could see that.
I admire what the cast and crew wanted to do with this film, and I appreciate that they kept the story largely intact, but I don’t think a lot of people will see it that way. A remake or adaptation usually needs something that sets it apart from the work it was based on, but this unfortunately doesn’t. I know my review seems to contradict itself, but I really am conflicted.
Do I think people who watch this movie with a less critical eye will love it? Yes, I do. Do I think it’s a good kids’ movie? Absolutely. Is it a movie I’d watch again? No, but maybe if they paid me.
Moana is at least miles better than Snow White, but it still feels unnecessary. Studios are running out of ideas, and this is what we’re left with. I won’t judge anyone who wants to watch this movie, and I definitely think kids will have a blast with it. As for me, I think Moana is a 2 out of 5-star movie.
