BY JOCELYN MENDOZA

One thousand years after the Demigod Maui steals the Heart of Te Fiti, a magical stone that can create life, Moana’s island Motu Nui begins to be drained of its vitality. Moana, the daughter of Chief Tui, is chosen by the ocean to sail far beyond the reef to search for Maui, and together return the lost Heart of Te Fiti.

Directed by John Musker and Ron Clements, Moana (voiced by Auli’i Cravalho) is Disney’s first Polynesian princess who sets out on a thrilling and action-packed adventure with the Demigod Maui (Dwayne Johnson) to save her island. The heart warming movie features Polynesian culture, fantastic music, and beautiful visuals.

Ever since she was a child, Moana was drawn to the ocean and desired to venture its waters. However, her father, chief of Motunui, forbids anyone from going beyond the reef because of the dangerous waves, and instills Moana with the principles of leading the village.

Moana is later told by her grandmother that the ocean parted its waves for her and chose her to save the world from evil. Together Moana and her chicken Heihei voyage across the open-ocean to find Maui and travel to the island Te Fiti to return the heart. Along the way they battle against enemies such as the Kakamora pirates and the giant lava monster Te Ka, who blocks Te Fiti.

Maui’s character plays an important role in highlighting Moana’s strength and independence. Despite being the young daughter of the chief, Moana proves to Maui that she is capable of navigating the sea and protecting herself. Though Maui’s powers are used in the film, Moana’s determination and bravery are central the plot and offer an inspiring message of female empowerment.

Overall, Moana” is a great film of self-discovery and heritage, with songs about courage and challenges in life. “Moana” embraces diversity and altogether is a movie that I recommend to people of all ages.

Rating: 5 out of 5 (stars)