Oscars Preview: 30 Movies to Watch Before the Nominations Come Out!
By Emily Scott
Image courtesy of Walt Disney Studios
Moana
What it’s About:
Moana is a young Polynesian girl from the fictional island of Motunui. From childhood, she has always been drawn to the ocean, but her father, the chief of Motonui, has decreed that no one travel past the reef near their island. He knows how dangerous the ocean can be and reigns Moana in, reminding her of her future duty to act as chief. But when the fish supply depletes and the coconuts on the island become rotted, Moana realizes that the island is in deep trouble.
Moana’s grandmother explains a legend to her, in which Maui, a trickster demigod, stole the heart of Te Fiti, the island goddess. Until the heart is restored, the island will suffer. Much to Moana’s surprise, the ocean delivers the heart of Te Fiti to her, choosing her to be the one to help Maui restore the heart. Moana sets off on a bold adventure to find Maui, restore Te Fiti’s heart, and save her island.
Major Players:
Moana was directed by Disney animation mainstays Ron Clements and John Musker, whose films Treasure Planet and The Princess and the Frog received nominations for Best Animated Picture. The film was co-directed by Don Hall and Chris Williams, both of whom gained recognition for co-directing Best Animated Feature winner Big Hero 6. All four men, along with Pamela Ribon and others, collaborated on Moana’s story. The film features music by Lin-Manuel Miranda, Opetaia Foa’i, and Mark Mancina. Voice talent includes newcomer Auli’i Cravalho and Dwayne Johnson.
What the Critics are Saying:
The 95% fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes pretty much says it all. Critics are praising the film for its meaningful storyline, its fun music, and its treatment of Pacific Islander culture. Sandie Angulo Chen of Common Sense Media writes, “This engaging adventure triumphs because of its empowering storyline, which pays tribute to Polynesian culture, and because of its feel-good music…” Christopher Orr of The Atlantic notes, “The movie is an absolute delight, a lush, exuberant quest fable full of big musical numbers and featuring perhaps the most stunning visuals of any Disney film to date.”
Possible Nominations:
Best Animated Feature, Best Original Song (likely, “How Far I’ll Go”)