The cultural significance of the catchy ‘Moana 2’ song ‘Can I Get a Chee Hoo?’
As a researcher and scholar deeply immersed in the study of Pacific Island cultures, I found the article on “Moana 2” to be nothing short of enchanting. The meticulous attention to detail in portraying Moana’s journey, her culture, and the rich traditions of the Pacific Islands was truly remarkable.
“Can I get a Chee Hoo?”
In “Moana 2,” Maui, a demigod, musically asks the title character, the princess, an intriguing question. This seemingly straightforward query is deeply rooted in cultural significance, carries weight within the storyline, and with its infectious melody, it’s poised to be Disney’s next irresistible tune that will stick in our heads.
The energetic rendition, skillfully executed by Dwayne Johnson, is definitely worthy of acclaim, particularly considering its connection to the popular tunes from the 2016 film. These melodies were penned by Lin-Manuel Miranda, Mark Mancina, and Opetaia Foa‘i. As Foa‘i stated, “The first one was fantastic for introducing this culture globally, and I’m incredibly proud of what we accomplished.
Mancina, who collaborated on the music for the second film with Foa’i, Abigail Barlow, and Emily Bear, stated that “the songs from this next movie must either match or surpass those of the first one.” He explained, “If they lack authenticity, children will recognize it as nothing more than a cash grab.
In the sequel to the animated film, set three years later, Moana – having become a skilled explorer, revered village chief, and elder sibling – embarks on a fresh journey at the behest of her ancestors. This voyage, extending beyond any she’s traveled before, aims to ensure the prosperity of her island in the future.
In this instance, Auli’i Cravalho (the voice of Moana) mentioned that the narrative, like before, emphasizes the journey towards maintaining a fixed path while acknowledging life’s unexpected twists and turns. Yet, she highlighted the importance of having support from your team when faced with these challenges.
In the movie, the memorable tune titled “Can I Get a Chee Hoo?” is played midway through, at a point where Moana feels incredibly disheartened as she prepares to confront Nalu, the deity of storms.
According to David Derrick Jr., one of the three directors of the sequel, in the first film, Moana helped Maui when he was at his weakest and most exposed. They wanted to pay this kindness back to Moana in a fun and exciting manner by having Maui assist her in reaching her full potential.
The lively tune “Can I Get a Chee Hoo” features a strong rhythmic backbone and hints of a rock ballad, while incorporating a vintage instrumental segment (a harmonious blend of jazz flute and synthesizers, performed by Maui using his fire conch). This song was penned last for the movie, as it more accurately depicted Moana’s current state and the depth of Maui’s feelings towards her, replacing an earlier number that didn’t quite capture these aspects.
Bear remarked, “Whatever we were trying seemed either overly sentimental or too vague, or it echoed a clichéd motivational talk found on YouTube. So, how can we create something original, yet free from cheesiness, while maintaining the essence of this character’s bond with Moana?
In difficult moments when I feel completely down and nothing seems to lift my spirits, it’s not a pep talk that I need, but a harsh dose of truth instead. Essentially, in the movie “Moana,” Maui tells Moana, “Don’t underestimate your abilities because the foe you face doesn’t doubt you. He wouldn’t bother trying to hinder you if he didn’t believe you had the power to defeat him.
With an epic call to action, Maui encourages Moana by reminding her of her unique qualities, praising her inner strength, and urging her to embrace self-empowerment.
In this movie, Maui frequently uses a particular phrase that carries strong feelings in Samoan tradition – we could call it a ‘fa’aumu’. This emotional expression has deep meaning not just for Samoans but across many Pacific Island cultures as well.
Grant Muagututi’a, a Samoan linguist and dialect coach for the film, commented, “The way it’s portrayed in the movie mirrors its usage today. It’s similar to baring your heart. In contemporary times, it is primarily used to express support at significant events such as a performance, a sports game, a wedding, or a funeral.
Cravalho remarked, “It’s a significant shout of jubilation, similar to our ‘hip hip hooray.’ On New Year’s Eve when fireworks explode, you’ll hear Chee Hoos echoing throughout the island. It’s almost like a game of call and response. Whenever there’s a graduation and a Pacific Islander takes the stage, it’s certain that we’re shouting our loudest ‘Chee Hoo!’
The theme song for “Moana 2” embraces a Pacific Islander greeting as a guiding principle, much like how “Hakuna Matata” incorporates a Swahili phrase as a personal mantra in “The Lion King.” As Mancina, who contributed to both songs, explained, the aim was to ensure that our work remains sensible but also maintains an element of fun.
× Initially, the idea of adapting a culturally significant phrase for an upcoming Disney film made co-director Dana Ledoux Miller feel apprehensive.
She emphasized the importance of this matter and discussed it extensively, primarily to ensure its usage was joyful and uplifting. Aware of its significance to many, they were cautious not to misstep. The process of working together on this project with such thoughtfulness was exhilarating, leading to something so enjoyable. I am immensely proud of the diligence we demonstrated in this collaboration.
To ensure an accurate portrayal, directors Derrick and Ledoux Miller (who are of Samoan heritage), along with Jason Hand, crafted the movie “Moana 2” with numerous culturally authentic elements. This was made possible by the Oceanic Cultural Trust, a team of 13 experts in anthropology, history, movement, canoes and navigation, linguistics, and various cultural practices.
Derrick stated that by emphasizing more instances where a story is tied to the unique aspects of a culture, the audience becomes more engaged because it makes the narrative feel genuine. He believes that using specific cultural elements doesn’t always have to be serious or heavy; it can also be light-hearted, cheerful, and filled with joy, as demonstrated by a song like “Can I Get a Chee Hoo?”.
Muagututi’a, representing the Oceanic Cultural Trust, expressed delight at being part of such a talented group, striving to create a film that’s deeply moving and culturally sensitive. He emphasized that when stories like ‘Chee Hoo’ are presented truthfully and inclusively, it shifts from appropriation to appreciation – a testament to love.
The advisors analyzed significant instances that showcased both Moana’s cultural background and her character development: her involvement in a kava ceremony to earn a new title, her expanding skills in navigation, and her captivating portrayal of a haka, a traditional dance and chant. During filming, Cravalho expressed her excitement about the haka scene, stating, “I’d never done a haka before, but I was completely into it. I really threw myself into it, and it felt amazing!
In the movie “Can I Get a Chee Hoo?”, I had the privilege of showcasing a unique dance form known as fire-knife dancing, or siva afi. As a model for the film’s animators, I found myself physically embodying this powerful tradition. It was an empowering experience to be part of something typically associated with men.
Hand emphasized the importance of accurately portraying Liufau’s physique during the fire-dancing scene. Each move carries significance, making it crucial to execute them perfectly. Our team of animators took great care in replicating her hard work.
As Hand states, Johnson felt a shiver when he first listened to “Can I Get a Chee Hoo?” In the recording studio, Bear inspired the actor to envision himself singing it specifically for his daughter: “Considering she’s in this situation, how would you like to convey this message to her? It would be brimming with love.
Now that “Moana 2” is out in cinemas, it’s likely that you’ll hear young children exclaiming “Chee Hoo” everywhere, remarked Foa’i with a chuckle. This idea brings a sense of excitement to Moana actor Cravalho.
For over ten years, I’ve been connected to this character, and her influence on me is almost too powerful. It’s incredibly meaningful to witness a young woman taking center stage in her own narrative. I take immense pride that our unique experiences are being showcased to a broader audience because Disney amplifies them. To those who might not be of Pacific Island descent but identify with this character or others in the film, I express my gratitude.
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2024-11-27 14:31