I have a confession that might get my Disney card revoked: I’ve never actually seen the 2016 animated version of Moana.

Growing up, my Disney rotation was strictly classic-era. I spent my childhood captivated by the masterpieces of the Disney Renaissance and earlier—films like Sleeping Beauty, Aladdin, and The Little Mermaid. And, of course, Beauty and the Beast, which has held the undisputed crown as my absolute favorite Disney film for as long as I can remember. Because of that nostalgia, I sometimes drag my feet when it comes to the newer properties. But when the buzz around the 2026 live-action adaptation of Moana started building, I decided it was time to finally dive in blind.

I am so glad I did. This movie is an absolute triumph—highly enjoyable, deeply moving, and an incredibly spectacular family film.