‘Moana 2’ Creatives on How Pacific Islander Nuances Helped Tell an Authentic AAPI Story

As a passionate admirer of the arts and a lover of stories that resonate deeply with their audiences, I can’t help but be utterly captivated by Dana Ledoux Miller’s journey with “Moana 2.” Her role as a screenwriter and director on this project, coupled with her Samoan heritage, has not only brought authenticity to the film but also empowered a new generation of Pacific Islanders.

Audience members who identify as Asian American, Native Hawaiian, or Pacific Islander are expressing great delight over Disney’s recently released animated film “Moana 2.

The creators put a lot of thought into intricate details like Moana’s seashell, her discovered pottery, her tattoos, and the design of the voyager’s canoe – these elements serve as significant references they went to considerable effort to incorporate.

However, a multitude of skilled craftsmen collaborated to achieve this outcome. The process was spearheaded by directors Jason Hand and David Derrick Jr., with Dana Ledoux Miller, a screenwriter and director known for her work on the live-action adaptation of “Moana,” lending her talents as well.

Beyond the main performers visible on screen, a team of specialists in fields like linguistics, navigation, dance, botany, art, and the Oceanic Cultural Trust were instrumental behind the scenes. This team collaborated on the initial film to preserve and celebrate the valuable tradition of Polynesian navigation methods.

In the making of his initial film, Derrick was the sole individual with a personal link to the Pacific Islands. Contrastingly, Miller, who boasts Samoan ancestry, contributed more than just her heritage during this production; she offered everything that shaped her identity. She expressed, “It’s empowering to see them join us because they’re not dictating, ‘This is the art, replicate it.’ Instead, they’re imparting generational knowledge and wisdom.

In Moana’s most recent release, the wisdom she gained previously sparked numerous plot developments. The sequel unfolds three years later, where Moana embarks on a fresh journey aimed at rescuing her people and lifting a curse. As expected, Maui, the demigod (voiced by Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson), reappears to aid her in locating the elusive island of Motufetu.

‘Moana 2’ Creatives on How Pacific Islander Nuances Helped Tell an Authentic AAPI Story

In another setting, Moana ventures bravely into the heart of a tempest – a violent sea storm. Nainoa Thompson, an expert on ocean navigation from the Polynesian Voyaging Society, shared his knowledge with Miller about how to depict this scenario.

Miller recounted discussing the predicament of being adrift on the sea, relying on ancient navigation methods, and encountering a storm with someone. He inquired about the best course of action in such a situation, to which the other person replied, ‘When you find yourself in a storm and there’s no way out, it’s a time for acceptance because you cannot command the elements; you can’t control the wind or the boat; all you can do is let go.’ This concept resonated with Miller, as getting lost often paves the way for magic and played a significant role in shaping Moana’s journey. Moreover, this idea served as a guiding principle during scriptwriting sessions with Jared [Bush], constantly reappearing in our discussions.

The conch shell that Moana uses, which is heard throughout the movie, was actually owned by Derrick. It’s interesting to note that during the filming process, it was Dave who always had a conch shell with him. You could tell it was made in our studio because it was frequently blown.

In another part of the story, Moana participates in a traditional “ava ceremony,” where she drinks from a coconut shell. According to Dionne Fonoti of the Oceanic Cultural Trust, this ritual is significant across the Pacific region. She explains that the “ava” has been celebrated and used as a ceremonial tool for centuries, both in the past and present. In the movie, when it’s shown, it represents Samoan culture specifically. What I found commendable was how Dana, Dave, and their team embraced this aspect.

Moana’s tattoo holds another layer of meaning. It not only signifies her newfound abilities, but it also mirrors the tattoos traditionally worn by Polynesian women. Unlike Maui’s tattoos, which narrate his demigod story, Moana’s design raises the question of its representation. According to Miller, “That’s why it includes the island, Motufetu, and all the waterways. She symbolizes her connection to the ocean.

The fundamental aspect that showcased Pacific Islander heritage was the emphasis on community. As Hand explains, “Serving our community was a significant aspect.” The concept of the ocean linking us is a major theme within the Moana universe, but it all stems from Polynesian culture. In discussions with every consultant, they all concur that community takes precedence over everything else.

In addition to the visual elements, it’s worth noting that the music team from “Moana” has reunited for the sequel. Opetaia Foa’i, the composer and lyricist, is back on board, this time collaborating with fellow composer Mark Mancina, as well as newcomers Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear who are also songwriters.

‘Moana 2’ Creatives on How Pacific Islander Nuances Helped Tell an Authentic AAPI Story

Foa’i wanted as much Pacific culture in the first film as possible and the sequel was no different. The team fully immersed themselves in the island traditions and the use of Samoan and Pacific Islander language. Says Foa’i, “It warmed my heart to see them accept this and put it in. You look at a couple of songs that are completely in the Pacific language. It’s unheard of.”

Following the removal of Maui’s powers, he is left without his enchanted hook, leaving him utterly powerless. As Miller explains, “We’ve dismantled him.” What I find fascinating about this scenario is that for the first time in his 3000-year lifespan, Maui feels so helpless that he turns to the gods and ancestors for aid. The song he sings at this moment, in Samoan, is a desperate entreaty and a heartfelt supplication to the ancestors to restore balance.

Miller takes pride in having developed a creation that, according to her, allows people from the Pacific region to recognize themselves within it.

For Miller, being involved in the process carries great importance, and it’s a step in the right direction. She shares her feelings by saying, “I was a child who was hesitant to reveal my Samoan identity to others because they didn’t believe me or valued it. I felt such pride for my heritage, but the world made me feel insufficient, and that sentiment seeped into so much of my being.

As a passionate movie enthusiast, I can’t help but get choked up when I reminisce about receiving the call for the live-action role. The initial thought that crossed my mind was, “I suspect everyone will think I’m not qualified enough for this role and because I’m too white.” That was the self-doubting whisper echoing in my head.

Through her involvement in film production and collaboration with consultants and the team, she experienced a sense of acceptance beyond what she had anticipated. She explains, “It boosted my self-assurance, yet it fueled my determination to ensure that I deliver for everyone.

2024-12-07 01:19

‘Moana 2’ Creatives on How Pacific Islander Nuances Helped Tell an Authentic AAPI Story

Read More

Minority Mindset