The Main Differences Between the Original and Live Action Moana Movies Article was written by Nathaniel and Sarah S. Published on Read Reel Reviews, this post contains affiliate ads, you can find out more on our policies page or in the disclaimer at the bottom of the blog.
Know Before You Watch Moana (Live Action)
Length: 1 hr. 56 mins
Categories: Adventure, Family, Musical
Rating: PG
Warnings: Mild Peril and violence, Family loss, and large creatures (can be very scary for younger viewers)
Quick Summary of Moana (Live Action)
Moana sets out on a journey beyond the reef to save her people and better understand her connection to her ancestors. Along the way she teams up with Maui (willing or not), learns more about her heritage, and embraces her role as a wayfinder. The live-action adaptation follows the core story of the animated classic while expanding a few character and cultural elements.
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Differences Between the Original and Live Action Moana Movies
There are not a lot of changes. And none of them are what I would consider to be significant. It’s a pretty straightforward copy of the original story. And that story wasn’t very old to begin with. But it is a beautiful retelling. The live action version is really well done. Actors, special effects, visuals- it all feels very in place with the original while also standing on it’s own. But there are a few things we felt like noting as different…
Music Changes, new and updated
The live-action adaptation includes more of Maui’s famous musical number, allowing audiences to experience a more complete version of one of the franchise’s most recognizable songs. A short new song accompanies Maui training Moana. The sequence helps further develop their relationship while giving the adaptation fresh musical material. There is also a fantastic song (Along the Way) that plays during the credits with the new and original Moanas! And both the actress that plays Moana in this movie and the voice actress from the original movie sing in it.
The Fear Factor
I was concerned that the sea of monsters was going to be too scary in the live action. But they made it far less scary. But there were a couple of scenes that were far scarier in the live action than in the animated original. All of the storms being much more realistic made them much scarier. And the battle at the end with Tafiti and fire… whew. That was intense originally but it is much more so in the live action version.
More Emphasis on the Ancestral Stone/Shell
The live-action version places greater importance on ancestral stones and shells as physical connections to family history and tradition. These items serve as powerful reminders of the legacy passed down through generations.
Moana Dad’s Knowledge of Their History
Chief Tui appears to have a deeper understanding of the island’s history and traditions. This change adds additional context to his choices and creates a stronger link between the older generation and Moana’s journey.
The Length
The live action movie is about ten minutes longer than the animated version. But it feels a little longer than that. The scenes that were extended or added do not feel a lot different from the original animation.
Discussion Questions for Moana (Live Action)
- How does Moana’s connection to her ancestors influence the decisions she makes?
- What differences stood out the most between the animated and live-action versions?
- How are the characters different from the beginning of the story to the end? What about them stays consistent throughout?
- What qualities make Moana an effective leader for her people? Who are some strong leaders in your life?
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