What to watch with your kids: ‘Moana’
Monday 28 November 2016
Age 6+
Lovable characters, memorable music make Disney film great.
“Moana” is an animated Disney adventure about a Polynesian island chief’s daughter who sets off on a quest to save her people. With Dwayne Johnson voicing demigod Maui and a score that features original music by “Hamilton” creator Lin-Manuel Miranda, the movie should appeal to viewers of all ages. Scary, perilous scenes include run-ins with frightening, violent monsters (one made of lava, the other a giant crab). Characters also go up against a ship full of adorable (but armed) coconut pirates, a character dies off-screen and a couple of male authority figures yell at Moana. There’s also a bit of language along the lines of “butt” and “dumb.” Otherwise, the movie should be fine for younger viewers, offering positive messages of self-discovery and empowerment. And Moana herself is a great role model, demonstrating perseverance, curiosity and courage. (113 minutes)