Moana (meaning “ocean” in many Polynesian languages) is a 3D computer animation showcasing the legends and stories of our Pacific ancestors. The creative talent is impressive. The animation filled with rich and vibrant colours. But what really sparks my childhood nostalgia, (growing up as a young girl on the other side of the world) is that Moana is  a ātaahua Polynesian Princess.

Que Jaedyn Randell, the talented young wahine voicing the Maori Moana. Beating off over 250 other hopefuls, Randell shines in her debut acting performance. The first ever Disney film to be translated into Te Reo Maori.

“..I’m very proud to be a part of such a beautiful kaupapa and I’m hoping that this will support the revitalisation of our language..” Randell

Feisty, courageous and brave, Moana is a mana wahine. With no Prince Charming required, she breaks away from the traditional mold of Disney princesses. Instead, she is focused on the well being of her people, a natural voyager with a warrior spirit; every bit worthy of her heroine title.

Moana is set around 2,000 years ago, before the intrepid voyages that discovered many of the countries making up the Pacific Islands today. This is portrayed gracefully through the blend of cultural influences we see reflected in Moana’s story. The Maori haka Maui performs before battling the lava monster; the adaptation of the Samoan legend Sina and the eel (explaining why the coconut has three eyes) and the Kakamora, cave-dwelling goblins from the mythology of the Solomon Islands, portrayed as vicious (but cute) coconut pirates. When the characters break into traditional Disney song and dance, the movements are carefully choreographed to capture the skills and grace of the Polynesian siva and hula.

Above all the common theme binding together all Pacific people through out the film, is the importance of the ocean. “Way-finding” or ocean exploration, was an integral part of ancient Polynesians’ way of living, and sparks the ignition in Moana’s epic voyage.

Moana delivers on everything magical we love about Disney, with the added sparkle of pasifika flavour.  Our Polynesian culture is showcased to the world, in a sweet and charming story of a heroic young lady, definitely a cut above her predecessors in girl power.

Taika Waititi, a proud ambassador of Kiwiana , worked as both a writer and director on the original English-language version of “Moana,” After approaching Disney about translating the film into Te Reo, he and his sister, Tweedie Waititi, went on to produce the Maori language version.

“..For indigenous audiences to hear films in their own language is a huge deal, helping to normalize the native voice and give a sense of identification. It also encourages our youth to continue with their love and learning of the language, letting them know their culture has a place in the world..” Taika Waititi. 

Next week marks the start of Te Wiki o te Reo Maori, a week full of activities celebrating and promoting our Maori language.  Following the  Hikoia te Korero (Walk the Talk) departing outside my Manukau campus of MIT, I will proudly join the crowds of people, who gather in our theater for our very special screening of Moana Reo Maori .