Moana is good for Pacific Islander culture

Question

With the release of Moana 2 in theaters, there comes a great debate if Moana is respected by Pacific Islanders like the Māori in New Zealand or if it comes across offensive. By my own connections and Beliefs I think it represents the culture beautifully and Disney has down a great job.

Comments

I agree with the idea that Moana represents great Pacific islander culture. However, since the article was written in 2020,  I wonder if that evaluation still holds true or if it has changed over the past few years.

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Having vast demographics of Disney princesses is an amazing advancement for Disneys global  audiences. The article you used is a bit outdated since it was released after the initial Moana premiered. All I can truly think of is this tiktok I saw after the Moana 2 release, is this cultural appropriation? https://www.tiktok.com/@feet5666/video/7441081248308645166

Answer 1

You did a great job addressing the ongoing conversation about Moana and its impact on Pacific Islander cultures, particularly Māori culture. Your perspective highlights an important aspect of the film: its representation of Polynesian mythology, landscapes, and traditions. It's crucial to recognize that for many Polynesian communities, there has historically been limited representation in mainstream media. Moana not only brings attention to the beauty and richness of Polynesian culture but also gives voice to narratives that are often overlooked. Disney's careful collaboration with cultural experts and consultants from the Pacific Islands is one of the reasons the film is seen by many as an important step toward more authentic representation. This level of visibility is incredibly significant, and it provides a sense of pride and acknowledgment for Polynesians who have long been underrepresented in global media. I love this topic and I'm so glad you brought it to my attention, Thank You!

Comments

I loved your comment and feedback about this topic, I also agree that Moana has provided a wider view of pacific islander culture. The first movie, it's held a strong title of being one of the most watched Disney movies and allows for the viewers to be engaged with the story.