Did Moana Inspire Any Mermaid-Themed Spin-Offs?

The Polynesian mythology that inspired 'Moana' is rich with ocean spirits and demi-gods, but mermaids aren't a central feature. Instead, you get figures like Te Fiti, the goddess of creation, or Maui, the trickster who shapes islands. That said, the idea of half-human, half-fish beings appears in other cultures—like the Ningyo from Japanese folklore, which are more ominous than Disney's singing crabs! What fascinates me is how 'Moana' sidesteps Western mermaid tropes entirely. The ocean itself is a sentient character, not just a backdrop for sirens. If you dig deeper, Maori legends speak of Ponaturi, creatures who live underwater but must return to shore—closer to selkies than Ariel. It's refreshing to see a water myth that doesn't default to European imagery.

Moana definitely isn't a mermaid in the traditional Disney sense—no shimmering tail or underwater castle for her! But what's fascinating is how her story taps into a different kind of oceanic mythology. While Ariel from 'The Little Mermaid' represents European folklore, Moana draws from Polynesian legends, where the ocean itself is a living, breathing character. She's more of a wayfinder, chosen by the sea, than a creature of it. The way she interacts with the water feels spiritual, like a partnership rather than a transformation. It's refreshing to see Disney explore this instead of recycling the same tropes. Plus, that scene where the ocean parts for her? Chills every time. Honestly, comparing her to mermaids feels reductive. Moana's strength lies in her humanity—her stubbornness, her connection to her ancestors, and her willingness to challenge gods. If anything, she's the anti-mermaid: grounded in culture rather than fantasy, even when surrounded by magic. That's what makes her stand out in Disney's lineup.

Moana's oceanic journey is bursting with life, and while mermaids don't make an appearance, the film introduces us to a whole cast of memorable aquatic companions. The most iconic is probably Pua, her loyal pig, who isn't aquatic but embodies the spirit of island life. Then there's Heihei, the hilariously clueless rooster who somehow survives every mishap at sea. The real aquatic stars, though, are the playful and curious ocean itself—personified as a sentient force that guides Moana. It lifts her boat, saves her from drowning, and even forms playful shapes like spirals and waves. Beyond that, the film showcases stunning tropical fish, glowing jellyfish, and even a brief encounter with a colossal crab named Tamatoa. While Tamatoa's more of a antagonist, his glittery, treasure-covered shell and David Bowie-esque attitude make him unforgettable. The lack of mermaids actually works in the film's favor—it keeps the focus on Polynesian mythology, where the ocean is a character in its own right, not just a backdrop for fantastical creatures.