Understanding Moana's Father’s Strictness and Reluctance in the Original Story

At first glance, Moana's father's strictness and reluctance to let her go on a journey may seem unjust or mysterious. However, a deeper understanding of the story and the cultural context in which it is set can shed light on these behaviors. This article explores the reasons behind Moana's father's actions and provides insights into the backstory, highlighting how cultural, familial, and personal factors influenced his decisions.

Inside the Kahuna's Mind: The Backstory

Moana's Father and the Reefs: In the tale of Moana, Moana's father, Chief Tamatoa, was a Kahuna (priest or chief), deeply revered in his community for his knowledge and wisdom. His strictness stemmed primarily from his love for his daughter and his commitment to protecting her from the dangers he perceived, including the ocean and the unknown. The family had lived on a small island for many generations, and the reefs surrounding their home served as a physical and psychological barrier, keeping them safe from the uncertainties of the sea.

The Sacred Nature of the Reefs: Within the story, the reefs are depicted as sacred. They are not just natural barriers but are seen as protectors, a direct link to the gods and a symbol of their ancestors. The Kahuna's strict rules were not merely imposed out of parental control or selfishness but as a way to honor these beliefs and maintain the sanctity of their island home.

The Cultural Context: Cultural and societal expectations played a significant role in shaping Moana's father's behavior. In Polynesian and Oceanic cultures, the role of the Kahuna was highly influential, and their word was often law. These roles came with a heavy responsibility to maintain order and protect their people, which often translated to a more guarded and cautious approach towards their children.

Psychological and Emotional Factors

Protection vs. Control: Underlying Moana's father's strictness was a deep sense of responsibility to protect his daughter, not only from external threats but also from the psychological trauma he had experienced. As a Kahuna, he had seen the devastating consequences of what could happen when individuals ventured into the unknown, especially on their sacred isles. This experience had a profound emotional impact, leading to a strong desire to keep his family safe.

Passing the Torch: Moana's father also had a complex emotional investment in ensuring that someone worthy and prepared would take on the role of leading their people. His reluctance to let her leave might also be seen as a way to encourage her to cultivate the skills and wisdom necessary to care for their community, even if it was during a time of personal hardship.

Challenging the Norms: Moana’s Journey

Uncertainty and Ancestral Call: Moana's journey represents a clear deviation from the norm, driven by the ancestral call and her own inner voice. Her mother, Taumalō, recognizes the importance of Moana fulfilling her destiny, even as she grapples with her own fears and struggles with her maternal duties. Phoebe Waller-Bridge, the creator and voice of Moana's mother, talks about the mother’s pain in repressing her own desires for Moana’s sake. This adds a layer of complexity to her character, highlighting the internal conflicts and sacrifices one must make for the greater good.

Revelation and Acceptance: Through her experiences in the ocean, Moana comes to understand the importance of her mission and the necessity for change. She learns that sometimes, breaking the boundaries of the known can lead to a better future. Her father, seeing the strength and wisdom his daughter has developed during her journey, ultimately comes to accept the inevitability of her path.

Conclusion

The strictness and reluctance of Moana's father towards her journey are complex and rooted in deep cultural, psychological, and emotional factors. While these actions may initially appear as a barrier to Moana's heroism, they ultimately represent the sacrifices and challenges that come with leadership and the acceptance of challenges to maintain the balance of the world. Understanding these layers not only enriches the narrative but also provides valuable insights into the characters and their motivations.

Additional Resources

For a more in-depth analysis of the film's themes and deeper character insights, consider watching the movie’s behind-the-scenes documentaries, reading interviews with the cast and production team, and exploring articles on cultural studies related to Oceanic folklore and storytelling.