Ahead of the release of Moana 2, Auli’i Cravalho, who voices the iconic character, has weighed in on the ongoing debate about whether Moana should be considered a Disney princess.
Cravalho, who first brought Moana to life in the 2016 animated film, will reprise her role in the highly anticipated sequel. In Moana 2, the story continues to follow the adventurous Moana as she embarks on a new journey across the Pacific Ocean. The sequel will also feature returning stars like Dwayne Johnson, Alan Tudyk, and Temuera Morrison.
Cravalho’s Perspective on Moana as a Disney Princess
In a recent interview, Cravalho clarified that she does, indeed, consider Moana a Disney princess. However, she also noted how the definition of a Disney princess has evolved over the years. Unlike the traditional princesses—often depicted in elegant ballgowns—Moana’s role is grounded in strength and self-reliance.
“Films are always representative of their times. For today’s audience, we want to see a young woman being the hero of her own story,” Cravalho said. “So, yeah, she is a princess, but she’s also a hero. I like that those two words are now interchangeable. You probably won’t see Moana in a ballgown, and that’s fine.”
The actress also highlighted how Moana’s journey of self-discovery, which notably excludes a romantic love interest, sets her apart from other princesses. She hinted that the sequel may continue this trend, showcasing Moana’s independence as a role model for young viewers.
What to Expect from Moana 2
In the original film, Moana stood out from characters like Snow White and Cinderella—who were often portrayed in traditional, royal settings—by being a fearless adventurer and leader. Cravalho’s comments suggest that in Moana 2, this independent and heroic version of Moana will remain at the forefront, offering fans more of what made her so beloved.
Final Thoughts on Cravalho’s Remarks
Cravalho’s insights reflect her deep connection to the character and her understanding of Moana’s cultural significance. While Moana may not fit the mold of classic Disney princesses, her uniqueness has been a key factor in the success of the franchise. After eight years, fans are eager to see how this powerful and distinctive character continues to inspire in Moana 2.
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