The Legacy of Moana: How the Film Has Impacted Representation in Animation and Beyond (2024)

When “Moana” hit theaters in 2016, it became an instant sensation. The Disney animated film follows the story of a young Polynesian girl on a journey to save her island from an ancient curse. It was a critical and commercial success, grossing over $600 million at the box office worldwide, and earning nominations for both an Academy Award and a Golden Globe. However, the film’s impact extends far beyond the entertainment industry. “Moana” has also become a landmark moment in the representation of diverse cultures in animation, as well as a catalyst for change in the broader fight for equality and inclusion.

One of the most significant ways that “Moana” impacted representation is in its portrayal of Polynesian culture. The film takes great care to present a respectful and authentic depiction of the Polynesian people, their mythology, and their way of life. It was co-directed by Ron Clements and John Musker, who had previously helmed such Disney classics as “The Little Mermaid” and “Aladdin.” For “Moana,” they conducted extensive research on Polynesian history and culture, consulting with a range of experts and scholars, and even traveling to the South Pacific to experience the culture firsthand.

The result is a film that celebrates Polynesian culture while also challenging stereotypes and misconceptions. For example, Moana is not portrayed as a passive or submissive character, as some might expect from a Disney princess. Instead, she is strong-willed, independent, and fiercely determined to save her people. Similarly, the character of Maui, a demigod who accompanies Moana on her journey, is not just a one-dimensional sidekick but a complex and flawed character with a rich backstory.

“Moana” also marks a significant step forward in the representation of people of color in animation. Historically, animation has been criticized for its lack of diversity, with many popular characters being white and male. This has led to a dearth of role models for children from diverse backgrounds, and a limited range of stories being told. “Moana” challenged this status quo by centering the story on a non-white female protagonist and featuring a predominantly Polynesian cast of characters.

This representation matters. Research has shown that children who see themselves reflected in media are more likely to develop positive self-esteem and a sense of belonging. In a study conducted by the Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media, children who were shown a diverse range of characters had higher self-esteem and greater empathy for others than those who were not. By portraying Polynesian culture and characters in a positive and authentic light, “Moana” can help to combat negative stereotypes and foster greater understanding and appreciation of diversity.

The impact of “Moana” goes beyond the realm of entertainment, however. The film has also inspired a range of social and political movements. For example, the film’s themes of environmentalism and sustainability have resonated with audiences around the world. In the film, Moana and her people rely on the ocean for their livelihood, and the health of the ocean is crucial to their survival. This message is especially relevant today, as the world grapples with the devastating effects of climate change and environmental degradation.

“Moana” has also been embraced by the Polynesian community as a source of pride and inspiration. For many Polynesians, the film has provided a much-needed platform for their culture and heritage, which has often been marginalized or ignored by mainstream media. The film has also led to greater awareness and appreciation of Polynesian art, music, and dance, with many communities organizing cultural events and performances inspired by the film.

The impact of “Moana” is not limited to the Polynesian community, however. The film has also become a symbol of the broader struggle for equality and inclusion. The success of “Moana” has shown that films featuring diverse stories and characters can be both artistically and commercially successful. This has encouraged other filmmakers and studios to follow suit, and has led to a greater range of diverse representation in popular media.

Furthermore, “Moana” has also sparked important conversations about cultural appropriation and representation. In the wake of the film’s release, there was some debate about whether it was appropriate for non-Polynesians to tell Polynesian stories. Some argued that the film perpetuated stereotypes and exoticized Polynesian culture. However, others saw the film as a positive step forward, and a respectful representation of Polynesian culture.

This debate highlights the importance of ensuring that diverse representation is not just superficial, but also respectful and authentic. While it is important to have diverse stories and characters, it is also important to ensure that these stories are being told by those with a deep understanding and appreciation of the cultures they are representing.

In conclusion, “Moana” has had a profound impact on representation in animation and beyond. The film’s celebration of Polynesian culture, its positive portrayal of diverse characters, and its themes of environmentalism and sustainability have all resonated with audiences around the world. Furthermore, the film has become a symbol of the broader struggle for equality and inclusion, and has inspired important conversations about cultural appropriation and representation. While there is still much work to be done to ensure that all voices are represented in popular media, “Moana” has shown that progress is possible, and that diversity and inclusivity are not just good for society, but also good for business.