Do the themes in "Moana" reflect Western or Pacifica themes?

All movies have different themes, and Moana is no different. Moana is set in a Pacifica setting, but it was created by Western people.

As an example of a theme, there's a strong theme of knowing who you are in Moana. This is expressed pretty clearly in the song "I Am Moana":

But that's just one theme; I'd expect a good answer to identify and address several themes in the movie. Do these themes reflect Western ideologies, tropes, and culture, or are these themes reflective of the Pacifica culture?

analysis moana

Best Answer

"Moana" is at its heart a creation of Disney studio's writers and film-making technicians engaged in the making of a children's movie. It is a children's story, an updated retelling of the old Polynesian myths and legends. Those myths and legends center primarily on the relationship of people's obedience to their gods, priests, and royal leadership. Very little abstract social philosophy in re interpersonal relationships can be found in them. Whatever social philosophy one believes can be found in "Moana" would be in there purely for story telling to juvenile audiences.

If you want to see traditional Polynesian clan behavior clashing with modern social philosophy (along with a bit of Polynesian mysticism with it) – view the excellent New Zealand Maori (polynesian) movie "The Whale Rider" (2003). See Wikipedia for details.