I love disney movies. I mean who doesn’t? Pocahontas, Beauty and the Beast and Rapunzel are just some of my favorites. They are basically my childhood! The fact that there are remakes and new ones makes it more exciting as it connects us parents to our kid’s generation.
Moana, one of the recent movie released by disney is also no exception. Honestly, more than the graphics, I think me and my husband enjoyed the movie more than our daughter.
Let me tell you why:
(Spoiler alert! Do not proceed if you haven’t watched the movie yet.)
1. The perfect setting
I personally like the setting of the story. The graphics is very realistic. It reminds me of my childhood playground – the beach. Seeing Moana play by the water brings me back to the time where I would just sit under the shade of a camachile tree daydreaming while looking at the horizon.
Catanduanes Island
Unfortunately, due to beach erosion and the continuous rising of the sea level, my daughter can only enjoy that same place through my stories and some faded pictures.
2. Lesson about identity
“I have crossed the horizon to find you
I know your name
They have stolen your heart from inside you
But this does not define you
This is not who you are
You know who you are”
This is one of my favorite songs from the movie. I kind of hope there was a longer version but I think that’s about it. Nevertheless, it sums up the lesson about being secured in ones identity even if the world labels you with something else.
Every character is relatable. Maui for one who fails to see his worth without his hook reminds us that it is never our job, our title or achievements that defines us. It’s a great lesson to impart with our kids. Something good to remind us, parents as well.
3. A picture of second chances
Forgiveness. Reconciliation. Not only with people who did us wrong but also with ourselves. These are valuable lessons that are very apparent throughout the whole story. It mirrors how failing to forgive prevents us from moving forward.
All of us commit mistakes. Some of which are seemingly irreparable but don’t get stuck in that lifeless rocky island like Maui or get consumed by anger like Ta Fiti. Let go. Forgive.
4. Something about parenting and letting go
Who among you are able to relate? Someday our kids will be very persistent in getting on a canoe to sail the open seas. It will never be easy but it is necessary. It is in fact the most difficult stage of parenting.
5. No love interest
Finally! Don’t get me wrong. I’m not unromantic. But isn’t it nice to teach little girls that life is more than just meeting a handsome prince and getting married? The movie tells us a story of a girl stepping up to help her community, fulfilling her destiny.
6. Songs
Need I say more? It’s been on replay ever since. We have our own favorites and funny enough my daughter loves Dwayne Johnson’s You’re Welcome.
What’s your favorite Moana songs? Write your favorite lines below.