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Moana’s Challenge of Gender Norms and Her Next Chapter

Writer: Madelyn BrooksMadelyn Brooks
Photo Courtesy of Microsoft
Photo Courtesy of Microsoft

After the success of the first Moana film in 2016, the second movie delivers even more music, heartfelt moments, and inspiring themes for audiences of all ages. For those who missed the movie in theaters, Moana 2 will be available to stream at home on Mar. 12, a perfect opportunity to settle in with popcorn and enjoy the film from the comfort of your home. 


Many people are eager to see how the next part of Moana’s life carries on, especially after the first film's popularity, which featured amazing songs like How Far I'll Go and You're Welcome.


While watching the children I was babysitting, I couldn’t help but notice how enchanted they were by the Moana 2 songs. They sang them non-stop, immersed in the world of Moana. It’s intriguing, considering they were young boys — traditionally, films like Moana are often seen as being more aligned with a female audience; yet, these boys were captivated by Moana’s character. 


This had me thinking: what is it about her that resonates so deeply with audiences, regardless of gender?


Could it be that Moana embodies certain masculine qualities, such as strength, dominance, and self-reliance? She is far from the traditional image of a princess. Instead of waiting for a rescue, Moana takes charge of her own destiny, demonstrating courage and determination.


These traits align more closely with traditional ideals of masculine leadership, challenging the conventional narrative of women as passive or nurturing figures.


Moana’s character questions the societal norms surrounding what it means to be a woman. She is a role model for young boys and girls alike, showing that bravery, leadership, and adventure are not determined by gender. The film’s themes of self-discovery and standing up for what’s right resonate across cultures, making Moana a character admired all over the world.


Moana’s independence and determination challenge traditional norms of femininity. She does not seek romantic love or approval from others; instead, her focus is on discovering her identity and fulfilling her responsibilities. 


Through her story, Moana challenges the notion that leadership and strength are traits exclusive to men, providing an empowering example for both young boys and girls. The film presents a new narrative where gender does not define one’s capacity for bravery, intelligence, or ambition.


For those eager to revisit the world of Moana, the film’s release to streaming offers the perfect opportunity to experience the next chapter of her journey. With its themes of adventure, empowerment, and the breaking of societal expectations, Moana 2 is set to make a lasting impact on viewers of all ages.


As I prepare to stream Moana 2 this March on Disney+, it is going to be very exciting to see how the sequel further explores these themes of empowerment and leadership. Will Moana continue to challenge the traditional norms of femininity, or will the story present a more stereotypical portrayal?


One thing is certain — the character of Moana will remain a powerful symbol of courage and resilience for generations to come.


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