Time for another Moana theory.
A while back, someone on Tumblr wrote a fan theory about Disney movies (shocker), and it’s actually worth consideration (other shocker). The idea is that Disney’s Moana is almost a perfect inverse of Disney’s The Little Mermaid, and let’s not forget that both films were directed by the same duo: Ron Clements and John Musker.
What do we mean by these two movies being the same, but also not at all? Well, it’s not a perfect theory in practice, but it does say something interesting about how creative teams can recycle old ideas in ways that still feel new. You can watch this entire Little Mermaid / Moana theory as a video on Screen Junkies News, or keep reading to get my personal take.
From the video:
Tumblr user Intergalactic-Ashkenazi noticed something strange about Moana. Basically, it’s the same story as The Little Mermaid, except every detail is flipped.
Now it’s certainly not every detail, but you can easily cherry pick a few compelling examples. And there are enough of them to argue that this Moana theory is at least somewhat intentional.
Moana and Ariel are both daughters of overbearing, powerful leaders.
I almost reacted, “Well, aren’t most Disney princess movies?” But that’s actually not the case when you think about it. Pocahontas comes close, but most other Disney “father characters” that are even around range in personalities from silly (Aladdin) to wise (The Lion King).
The video doesn’t directly mention this, but the immediate “reverse” for King Triton and Chief Tui is that one fears the land and the other fears the sea. Also, one is mortal and the other has a wicked trident.
But where Ariel is a sea-bound princess longing to venture onto land, Moana is a landlocked princess longing to venture on the sea.
Counterpoint: the directors copied their own homework but made enough changes to keep it from looking obvious.
Ariel goes to a “big scary ocean lady” who turns out to be evil.
Turns out? I don’t think anyone expected Ursula to be good, but I guess the point is that to Ariel, she seemed good, which only makes Ariel continue to look like an outright moron. The best inverse is probably how Moana turns out to be a way better protagonist.
While Moana goes to a “big scary land lady” who turns out to be good.
At first, I thought the idea was that Maui is the inverse of Ursula, but instead it’s saying that Te Kā fits the bill, which I think is correct. If you go further with this, you can say that Moana seeks out a man for help finding the female villain, while Ariel seeks out the female villain for help finding a man. Or something.
Both movies have a magical necklace with a spiral engraved on it. In The Little Mermaid it belongs to the villain, while in Moana it belongs to the hero.
This one’s slightly more of a stretch because the whole “reverse” thing seems selective at this point. On the one hand, the spirals on both objects actually seem to be the reverse of each other (different placement and one’s a shell while the other resembles a wave). And one’s a macguffin while the other is more of a “power.” On the other hand…was the “heart” in Moana ever a necklace? And is green the inverse of…yellow?
I’m officially overthinking this.
The Little Mermaid has a “small good crab,” where Moana has a “big evil crab.”
The video of course shows Sebastian from The Little Mermaid side-by-side with Tamatoa, the crab who sings “Shiny.” This matches up perfectly. Moana theory saved.
In [The Little Mermaid] a human sings about eating the crab. While in [Moana] the crab sings about eating a human.
You could also argue that Clements and Musker are big fans of dramatic irony that spans across their movies. Both theories are probably correct, and some good evidence for this one in particular is the fact that Tamatoa actually makes a joke about how a crab described like Sebastian is more likable than him in a scene after the end credits.
Moana returns to her people and leads them to a new life on the sea. Where Ariel leaves her ocean family for a new life on land.
Also, Moana has no love interest. In fact, you can read this easily as a shuffling of tropes just as easily as you would some big conspiracy. Moana’s mentor, Maui, is a god, while Ariel’s mentor, Sebastian, is the crab. Ariel’s father is the god, the Kakamora are…things…and so on.
But perhaps the most important detail…
What? What is it? What is this clincher?!
The Little Mermaid sings on a rock, while in Moana the Rock sings to her.
I’ll admit, I laughed out loud at this, but only after having a miniature personal crisis of faith. And that’s the Little Mermaid is basically the reverse of Moana theory. Chime in with your own examples of how this theory holds up (or doesn’t) in the suggestion box below.
Well, it’s not a perfect theory, but WOW, is it mind-blowing.
I even hesitated at first to call this a “theory,” but yes, it’s an entertaining rabbit hole.
Love the clincher, lol!
Mind blown! I would’ve never put the 2 together!
Moana also sang on a rock near the end xD
Its an interesting theory. Not sure I buy all of it, but still a pretty good concept.
About the monsters, what if they are not the animals but the humans who adapted/mutated due to the polluted earth in wall-E. For example all they could eat is trash and junk and the monsters eat trash and junk. Animals evolved with the humans in the same way, as seen in monsters university.
Your positive attitude and enthusiasm are infectious. They create a motivating work environment.
TapinRadio serial key
A while back, someone on Tumblr shared an interesting theory about Disney movies that’s actually worth considering. The idea is that Disney’s “Moana” is essentially the reverse of “The Little Mermaid.” Both films, directed by Ron Clements and John Musker, explore themes of adventure, self-discovery, and defying expectations, but in opposite directions. While Ariel yearns to leave the ocean and explore the human world, Moana seeks to leave the land and journey across the sea. This reversal highlights their unique paths to finding their true selves. Speaking of unique adventures, if you’re into exploring and discovering new things, why not try finding diamonds in Minecraft ? It’s a fun challenge that mirrors the excitement of Moana’s voyage and Ariel’s curiosity.
Amazing theory! I loved the way it was written and the concept is very clear. You can also visit the website to see how great the content is and the features of this application is mind-blowing.
Interesting and exciting theory! I loved the way it was written. You can check out how amazing the content is on this Milky Way, I loved the user-friendly interface of this website. Click here to read and download.
Ariel is a favorite cartoon and childhood character) I’ve already watched Moana with my daughter, I like that this princess is different in appearance, brings variety to the types, and her character is different.
Step into the world of endless thrills and high-stakes fun with Vegas Sweeps 777! Whether you’re chasing big wins or just looking for some casual excitement, this app delivers it all. With its immersive gameplay and chances to hit major prizes, you’ll feel the energy of Vegas right in your hand. Download now and turn every spin into your next big win
Hey, I really enjoyed your article! It was super helpful and gave me some great insights. I hadn’t considered the topic from that angle before, and I’m excited to try your tips in my own writing. If you’re into social marketing, check out Owntweet Socialmedia . Have a great day!
These types of fake statements tend to be substantial, advantageous picture and thus — I’m certain and thus way too… Dramacool
Amazing and interesting theory. The concept is very clear. Thanks for sharing. If you love card games click on 3Patti Game and play a variety of games and win real prizes.
In geometry Dash there are countless unique levels with different themes, challenges, and music. You can also experiment with the level editor to create your own levels and share them with friends.
El artículo destaca cómo Moana y La Sirenita reutilizan estructuras narrativas inversas, manteniendo la frescura en sus historias.
tambien visita menu-precios
“Interesante cómo Moana y La Sirenita invierten sus historias. ¿Estrategia intencional o recurso habitual?”
“Great theory on Moana and The Little Mermaid having inverse storylines. It shows how Disney recycles narratives while keeping them fresh.
Truck Simulator Ultimate is a popular mobile game combining truck simulation and business management. Players transport goods, manage fleets, expand logistics businesses, and explore detailed maps. Its realistic gameplay and multiplayer mode enhance the immersive trucking experience.Click Here For More Details
Download Geometry Dash full version to unlock all levels, features, and exciting challenges. Experience the complete rhythm-based platformer adventure with unique soundtracks, vibrant visuals, and customizable characters. Perfect for gamers seeking the ultimate, uninterrupted gameplay on their devices. For More Details
I even hesitated at first to call this a “theory,” but yes, it’s an entertaining rabbit hole.
Triton and Chief Tui is that one fears the land and the other fears the sea. Also, one is mortal and the other has a wicked trident.
Watch Online Malayalam TV Programmes
ddmalar TV Serials,Asianet TV Shows