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We are getting quite used to strong animated female leads, and Disney\u2019s latest hum-along entitled Moana<\/em><\/a> \u2013 the name of the heroine in it – is no exception. She is headstrong, smart, courageous, adventurous and naturally, pretty. What makes her and her adventure more intriguing is the mythology surrounding the tale that anyone can enjoy, with songs that are emotive and toe-tappingly catchy, rather than pure schmaltz.<\/p>\n A terrible curse is triggered after a greedy Demigod called Maui (voiced by Dwayne Johnson<\/span><\/a>) steals a precious stone, causing all islands in the region to slowly perish. When the curse finally reaches Moana (voice of Auli’i Cravalho<\/span><\/a>), an impetuous Chieftain\u2019s daughter\u2019s island, she answers the ocean\u2019s call to seek out Maui and put things right.<\/p>\n Moana<\/em> is a blaze of colour and a cool refreshing summer breeze on a chilly December day, with exotic island settings and characters that entertain all age groups. It also has enough subtle jokes for adults, rather than overkill of tedious \u2018nudge, nudge, wink, winks\u2019 that have to be explained in the darkness of a cinema as to why mummy or daddy is in a fit of giggles when something clearly unfunny has happened to small eyes.<\/p>\n Moana is also justified in her scolding nature at times, especially with the immature Maui, rather than damn right condescending like some other \u2018Disney princesses\u2019. She is very practical and full of wanderlust, which is infectious – though Disney can\u2019t resist drumming home the \u2018listen to yourself and follow your dreams\u2019 mantra it survives on. Still, what\u2019s wrong with that?<\/p>\n Again, the 3D is irrelevant for kids too young to keep their glasses on. The magic is in the colourful storytelling, the mood-raising songs and the fun characters that all have their minute of fame and purpose. There is even a Bowie-esque number by a crab that thrills.<\/p>\n Moana merchandise is in the shops, ready for Christmas. However, this time, you don\u2019t resent the hard Disney sell as Moana is a role model any parent would actively encourage their offspring to have.<\/p>\n 4\/5 stars<\/strong><\/p>\n By @Filmgazer<\/p>\n