The Hero's Journey: Moana

Refusal of the Call

After Moana's grandmother tells Moana that the ocean chose her, Moana says, "Why would it choose me? I don't even know how to get past the reef."

Resurrection

In the final defeat, Moana must summon her courage and rely on everything she has learned. As she bravely places the heart on the lava monster's chest, Te Ka's rocky exterior falls away and she is transformed into her true, original self, the goddess Te Fiti. As a crown of beautiful flowers blossoms on her head. and the land flourishes around her, the rebirth of a new land is emerging.

Allies

Moana and Maui bond and become friends on the journey to defeat Te Ka. Maui teaches Moana how to navigate the boat, and Moana helps Maui regain his confidence to shape shift.

Tests

Moana and Maui enter the realm of monsters and find Maui's hook on the back of the giant crab, Tamatoa. They get it back after a short battle. They also battle a ship of small coconut warriors that try to steal the Heart of Tafiti.

Approach

Moana and Maui meet Te Ka and begin to battle. Maui is not able to hold him off long enough for Moana to enter the island. They are both injured and the boat is destroyed. Maui lashes out at Moana and leaves her alone in the ocean. Moana's grandmother reappears to her as a spirit. Moana decides to try and fight again, deciding that she will fulfill the ocean's mission.

The Journey Home

Moana can now safely return home and cross the threshold again back to the ordinary world.

Reward

Moana has matured into an accomplished voyager, and finally knows who she is. After recapturing the heart of Te Fiti, she proved that she is the person her grandmother always knew she could be.

Return with the Elixir

Moana has saved her people and restored her island to the plush green land it once was. The Village of Montonui is saved, and in a full circle moment, Moana has become Master Wayfinder and will lead her people on future voyages across the sea.

Call to Adventure

Moana realizes that the Island is dying, and she learns of Maui, who stole the green jewel called the heart of Te Fiti from the island, which is causing all the destruction. Moana's grandmother tells Moana of her connection with the ocean, her destiny to fight the monster Te Ka, gives her the glowing green jewel, and shows her the cave with hidden boats.

Supreme Ordeal

Moana sails back to the island to confront Te Ka again. On her way, Maui meets her, and fights alongside her once again. Moana finds a passage into the island, but not before Te Ka shatters Maui's hook, leaving him helpless. Moana has a moment of realization and holds up the heart of Te Fiti, getting Te Ka's attention.

Ordinary World

Moana starts her journey at her home island and is not satisfied with her life and responsibilities. She is unsatisfied by her life on the island, and she feels drawn to the ocean. Moana wonders why she does not feel at peace living on the island.

Crossing the Threshold

Moana tries again to set sail with some supplies and is successful. She sails for several days to find Maui. She finally arrives at his island and confronts him. Moana crosses from the ordinary world into the special world.

Meeting the Mentor

Moana's grandmother, Tala, gives her the information and the object she needs to complete her quest, without actually going on it with her. The ocean also plays a big role in aiding Moana in her quest, and could be considered supernatural aid.