Walt Disneys Perspective on Moana: Insights from a Modern Animation Classic
Walt Disney's Perspective on Moana: Insights from a Modern Animation Classic
Walt Disney, the visionary and founder of The Walt Disney Company, was a man of many grandiose dreams and a keen business acumen. When considering the modern animated masterpiece Moana, it is fascinating to ponder how Walt would have viewed this story and its execution. Would he have approved of the unique cultural influences and the powerful storyline, or would he have remained a staunch traditionalist? Let's explore Walt's perspective on Moana through a blend of historical context and the elements that shaped both Walt and the film.
The Cultural Element in Moana
The character of Moana and the overall storyline are heavily influenced by Pacific Island cultures, a move that some argue might not align perfectly with Walt's era, where traditional European storytelling was the standard. However, it is worth noting that Walt had a keen interest in expanding Disney's reach across diverse cultures. For instance, the film Pinocchio explored characters based on Italian folklore, and Alice in Wonderland touched on British and Lewis Carroll's literature. Walt recognized the value in storytelling that resonated with different cultural backgrounds, and Moana is a continuation of that tradition.
Walt's Business Acumen and Box Office Success
One of the key reasons Walt would likely have approved of Moana despite its cultural and storytelling differences is his unwavering commitment to business success. Walt Disney was a master at presenting his stories in a way that was both appealing and commercially viable. In Moana, the film strikes a perfect balance between cultural authenticity and broad appeal, ensuring that audiences of all backgrounds can connect with the story emotionally. The success of Moana in both critical acclaim and box office earnings is a testament to Walt's foresight in creating a universal narrative that celebrates cultural diversity.
The Talent Behind Moana
Walt Disney was also highly selective about the creators he worked with. He had a stark preference for talent, even if it meant training them himself or bringing in the best from around the industry. In contrast, Moana had the benefit of the digital revolution and its effects on animation. The film features talented voice actors and musicians, including Dwayne Johnson, who brought the character of Maui to life in a powerful manner. While Walt would have possibly preferred to have vocal performances with more traditional training, the modern era offers a broader range of artistic talent. This diversity is a hallmark of contemporary filmmaking and would likely have appealed to Walt, who admired and championed artistic excellence in all its forms.
Conclusion
Despite the differences in the contexts of their times, both Walt Disney and the creators of Moana share a common thread: a dedication to bringing stories to life that are both innovative and commercially successful. Walt would have certainly found Moana to be engaging and, in line with his business philosophy. The film's cultural depth, coupled with its global appeal, would have resonated deeply with Walt's vision for Disney as a world leader in entertainment. As the animation industry continues to evolve, Moana stands as a model that honors cultural heritage while remaining accessible to a wide audience, a principle that would have been very much in line with Walt Disney's enduring legacy.