Films, News, Trailers

Trailer Watch: “Moana” Olympics TV Spot Puts Female Lead Front and Center

“Moana”: Disney

This weekend’s Rio Olympic coverage brought forth a new TV spot for Disney’s upcoming, female-led animated film “Moana,” and the fierce personality of the titular character is an encouraging feature.

As Disney’s official synopsis of the movie reads, “Three thousand years ago, the greatest sailors in the world voyaged across the vast Pacific, discovering the many islands of Oceania. But then, for a millennium, their voyages stopped — and no one knows why.”

The story follows Moana, “an adventurous teenager who sails out on a daring mission to save her people. During her journey, Moana (voice of Auliʻi Cravalho) meets the mighty demigod Maui (voice of Dwayne Johnson), who guides her in her quest to become a master wayfinder. Together, they sail across the open ocean on an action-packed voyage, encountering enormous monsters and impossible odds, and along the way, Moana fulfills the ancient quest of her ancestors and discovers the one thing she’s always sought: her own identity.”

Unlike the teaser trailer, which seemed to focus more on Dwayne Johnson’s character Maui, this new TV spot puts Auliʻi Cravalho’s Moana in the spotlight she deserves. Moana challenges Maui on his arrogance, takes charge, and shows no fear.

“Moana” will mark Disney’s first Polynesian lead character. The film was directed by two guys, which is a disappointing fact, but those two guys, Ron Clements and John Musker, brought us Ariel of “The Little Mermaid” and Tiana of “The Princess and the Frog,” so we’re pretty sure Moana won’t be a passive character. “Hamilton” writer-creator Lin-Manuel Miranda co-wrote the film’s music.

“Moana” will hit theaters during Thanksgiving week on November 23. Check out the colorful and inspiring trailer below.


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