Hollywood
Why Does Moana Have Two Names?
The Disney animated film Moana tells the story of a brave Polynesian teenager who goes on an epic adventure across the sea to save her people. However, the title character has two different names depending on the country – Moana in some places, and Vaiana in others.
This name change for the same character and movie has puzzled many fans. So why does Moana have two names?
The reasons behind this are multifaceted, stemming from legal issues around trademarks, cultural and linguistic differences, marketing decisions, and more.
Key Reasons for the Dual Names
Here are the main factors that led to the main character having two different names:
- Trademark conflicts: The name “Moana” was already trademarked in some European countries, so Disney had to use “Vaiana” to avoid legal issues.
- Cultural meaning: Both “Moana” and “Vaiana” evoke the sea in different Polynesian languages. “Moana” means “ocean” and “Vaiana” means “water”.
- Marketing: Changing names in different regions requires additional investments, but Disney decided it was worthwhile.
- Linguistic differences: The name “Moana” did not resonate the same way in all countries, so local variants were used.
- Controversial associations: In Italy, “Moana” was too similar to an adult film star’s name, so “Oceania” was used instead.
Let’s explore each of these reasons in more detail.
Trademark Conflicts Forced the Name Change
One of the biggest factors was trademark issues in European countries. Disney could not use the name “Moana” in many European markets because that trademark was already registered.
This was confirmed in a tweet from Disney’s Spanish Twitter account, which stated:
“Since ‘Moana’ is registered in Spain as a trademark by a company, in the whole of Europe we will call it ‘Vaiana’.”
Similar trademark conflicts necessitated the name change across many other European nations. Rather than fight these legal hurdles, Disney decided it was easier to just change the character’s name for those regions.
Cultural Meaning Behind Both Names
While the trademark issues may have kicked off the initial name change, the different meanings behind “Moana” and “Vaiana” also played a role in Disney’s decision.
Both names evoke the sea and sailing, which connects deeply with the film’s Polynesian roots and ocean-faring narrative.
- In some Polynesian languages, “moana” means “ocean”.
- “Vai” means “water” in Polynesian languages like Maori and Hawaiian.
So while the two names are different, they ultimately reflect the same idea central to the character and the story.
Marketing Reasons Drove the Dual Name Approach
Changing a well-known character’s name in different markets also has significant marketing and communication implications.
Disney had to invest extra resources to make sure audiences were not confused by the dual names in different regions. This included:
- Branding and advertising to establish the new name
- Ensuring media and merchandise used the right name
- Avoiding leaks about the alternate name before release
- Explaining the change through press releases and announcements
While potentially costly, Disney likely saw the dual name approach as the best marketing strategy given the trademark conflicts.
Linguistic Differences Between Markets
In addition to the reasons above, linguistic differences between countries may have affected Disney’s name choice.
The name “Moana” may not have resonated with audiences in exactly the same way across all of Europe. Choosing a localized variation helped it feel more natural in each language.
The film’s creators also wanted the name to authentically reflect Polynesian roots while still being accessible worldwide. “Vaiana” achieved that balance for many European territories.
Controversy Over Adult Film Star in Italy
One especially unique situation occurred in Italy, where the name “Moana” was changed to “Oceania”.
This was to avoid any association with the late Italian adult film star Moana Pozzi. Using the name “Moana” for a family-friendly Disney film would have been controversial in Italy given Pozzi’s notoriety.
To bypass this issue entirely, the more neutral name “Oceania” was selected there instead.
Wider Impacts of the Name Change
While less common, name changes like this do happen periodically across the global film industry. But altering the name of both the movie’s heroine and the movie itself was still an unusual decision by Disney.
Here are some of the wider implications of using dual names:
- Added complexity for Disney: Having two canonical names increased complexity for marketing teams, merchandise, etc.
- Audience confusion: Some fans were confused to learn the main character’s name was different across regions.
- Cultural significance: The name change sparked discussion about cultural differences between European and Polynesian traditions.
- Marketing precedent: Other studios may follow suit and use dual names more often when releasing films globally.
So while practical reasons drove Disney’s choice, it also set an interesting precedent that impacted fans, culture, and marketing practices.
Key Lessons About Trademarks
Moana’s name change highlights important lessons for any brand using trademarked names:
- Thorough trademark searches are essential when selecting a new name.
- Registering trademarks globally can avoid conflicts in international markets.
- Contingency plans should be in place for potential trademark issues.
- Marketing budgets may need to accommodate rebranding campaigns if names must change.
- Move quickly if another party raises trademark infringement concerns about your brand name.
Following these tips can help minimize risks around trademarks and branding, saving you from a naming crisis down the road.
FAQ About Moana’s Dual Names
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about why this unique Disney character has two different names:
Q: What is the character’s real name then – Moana or Vaiana?
A: Both Moana and Vaiana are considered canonical names for the character. Moana is used in the Americas, Asia, Middle East, etc. Vaiana is primarily used in Europe.
Q: Was the name change only because of trademark issues?
A: No, while trademarks kicked it off, cultural/linguistic reasons and marketing also factored into the name change. However, trademarks were the primary driver.
Q: Does Vaiana mean the same thing as Moana?
A: Very similar – Moana means “ocean” and Vaiana means “water” in Polynesian languages. Both evoke ocean voyaging.
Q: Was Moana called Vaiana in all European countries?
A: No, she was called Vaiana in many but not all. In Italy she was Oceania. Names varied across Europe.
Q: Did this confuse fans and audiences?
A: Yes, some fans were confused to learn the character had two very different names. But Disney’s marketing helped limit widespread confusion.
Conclusion
In summary, legal trademarks and cultural/linguistic differences led Disney to give Moana two different names across different markets – Moana in the Americas and some parts of Europe, Vaiana in other European countries.
Additional factors like marketing challenges, audience perceptions, and avoiding controversy also influenced Disney’s decision for the rare dual-name approach.
While having two canonical names caused some complexities, overall it gave Disney the flexibility to overcome constraints in international markets. This case shows how critical factors like culture, language, law, and marketing needs to be balanced thoughtfully when launching global brands and characters.
You’re itching to watch The Unholy Trinity, but where can you find it? Is it worth your time? What’s the story, and how does it stack up against something like FAITH: The Unholy Trinity? If these questions are buzzing in your head, you’re in the right place. Let’s break it down like we’re chatting over coffee, covering where to catch this 2025 Western action flick, whether it’s got the grit to keep you hooked, and how it differs from that creepy game with a similar name
What Is The Unholy Trinity Movie?
Before we dive into where to watch The Unholy Trinity, let’s clarify what this film is. It’s a 2024 American Western action movie, not to be confused with The Unholy (2021) or FAITH: The Unholy Trinity (a video game). Released in U.S. theaters on June 13, 2025, it stars heavyweights like Pierce Brosnan and Samuel L. Jackson, directed by Richard Gray. Set in the rugged 1870s Montana, it’s a tale of revenge, dark secrets, and buried treasures, blending classic Western vibes with modern flair.
Image Credit IMDB
Learn more about Western films on our guide to the genre!
Where Can You Watch The Unholy Trinity Movie?
So, where can you catch The Unholy Trinity? As of June 2025, it’s fresh off its theatrical release, so streaming options are slim. Here’s the rundown:
- Image Credit IMDB
- Theaters:
The Unholy Trinity is playing in U.S. theaters. Grab tickets via Fandango or AMC Theatres. In Australia, check Palace Cinemas. It’s competing with big releases like How to Train Your Dragon, so check showtimes near you. - Streaming:
No major platforms like Netflix, Prime Video, Hulu, or Disney+ have it yet. JustWatch and Reelgood confirm it’s not available to stream, rent, or buy. Sign up for notifications on these sites to know when it drops. - VOD (Video on Demand):
No rental or purchase options are available on Amazon Video, Apple TV, or Fandango At Home yet. Westerns typically hit VOD a few months after theaters, so stay tuned. - International Availability:
In the UK or Australia, streaming is also unavailable. Flicks notes no current platforms, so theaters are your best bet for now.
Pro Tip: Add The Unholy Trinity to your watchlist on Reelgood or JustWatch for instant updates when it hits streaming.
Explore more movies in theaters now in our theater guide!
Is The Unholy Trinity Movie Worth Watching?
Wondering if The Unholy Trinity is worth your time? Westerns can be hit-or-miss, especially with endless streaming options. Here’s why this one might deserve a spot on your list:
- Star Power:
Pierce Brosnan as sheriff Gabriel Dove and Samuel L. Jackson as the enigmatic St. Christopher steal the show. Jackson’s intensity echoes his role in The Hateful Eight, while Brosnan brings grit akin to Seraphim Falls. Their chemistry is a highlight. - Story and Vibe:
The plot follows Henry, a young man avenging his father’s wrongful execution. The 1870s Montana setting and themes of greed and justice add depth. The action’s solid, with strong sound design and score, though it’s not revolutionary. - What Critics Say:
Mixed but positive reviews. Fans at the Zurich Film Festival praised Jackson’s commanding presence and the film’s B-Western charm. Some found Henry (Brandon Lessard) less compelling and the story standard, but it’s a fun, action-packed ride.
Bottom Line: If you love Westerns or Brosnan and Jackson tearing up the screen, it’s worth a watch. It’s not a genre game-changer but delivers for a gritty movie night. Catch it in theaters or wait for streaming.
Check out our review of top Westerns of 2025 for more recommendations!
Image Credit IMDB
What Is The Unholy Trinity Movie About?
Picture 1870s Montana: dusty trails, hidden gold, and secrets buried deep. The Unholy Trinity kicks off with Isaac Broadway facing execution for a crime he didn’t commit. Before he dies, he tasks his estranged son, Henry (Brandon Lessard), with a mission: hunt down the man who framed him.
Henry arrives in the remote town of Trinity, where things spiral. He’s caught between:
- Gabriel Dove (Pierce Brosnan), the town’s upright sheriff trying to keep order.
- St. Christopher (Samuel L. Jackson), a mysterious stranger bent on chaos.
What follows is a tense 1-hour-33-minute tale of revenge, betrayal, and buried treasures, packed with shootouts and suspense.
Why It Stands Out:
- The Montana setting feels alive, though some say the scenery could’ve been used more.
- It’s a straightforward story focusing on greed and justice, elevated by a stellar cast.
- Less about reinventing Westerns, more about delivering a tight, engaging ride.
Dive into the history of Western films with our in-depth feature!
Image Credit IMDB
Is FAITH: The Unholy Trinity Scary?
Hold up—let’s clear up confusion with FAITH: The Unholy Trinity, a pixel horror game, not a movie, often mixed up with The Unholy Trinity due to similar names. Available on Steam, it’s a cult hit with retro 8-bit visuals and 1980s “Satanic Scare” vibes. You play a young priest battling demons, cultists, and waning faith.
Is It Scary?
- Creepy Vibes: It leans on psychological horror with eerie sound design and a dark, pixelated atmosphere. Think dread over jump scares, perfect for Lovecraftian or retro horror fans.
- Player Feedback: It has a 95% positive rating on Steam from over 6,600 reviews, praised for its story and unsettling vibe. It’s creepy but not gore-heavy.
- Not a Movie: If you want to watch something, skip FAITH—it’s a game. Stick to The Unholy Trinity for your movie fix.
Quick Tip: Curious about FAITH? Try it on Steam for a spooky, story-driven experience. But for movie night, focus on The Unholy Trinity.
Discover more indie horror games in our gaming section!
Final Thoughts: Your Next Steps for The Unholy Trinity
The Unholy Trinity is a solid Western with big names and a gritty revenge tale, perfect for fans of classic shootouts. It’s in theaters now, but streaming options are still pending—bookmark JustWatch or Reelgood for updates. If you love Brosnan and Jackson or crave a Western fix, it’s a safe bet. If you want something groundbreaking, you might wait for more reviews.
Accidentally stumbled on FAITH: The Unholy Trinity? It’s a creepy gem of a game, but it’s not the movie you’re after.
Got more questions about The Unholy Trinity or other films? Drop them below, and let’s keep the convo going. Happy watching (or gaming)!
Browse our full movie streaming guide for more tips on finding films online!
British crime thrillers have captivated audiences for generations with their unique blend of gritty realism, suspenseful storytelling, and multi-dimensional characters. From classic gangster films to modern psychological thrillers, these movies offer a glimpse into the sordid underbelly of British society. This article explores ten classic films that have shaped the genre, providing both entertainment and social commentary.
The Classics
Get Carter (1971)
Get Carter is generally cited as a classic film for its portrayal of British gangster culture and as a forerunner to subsequent crime dramas. Michael Caine stars as Jack Carter, a London gangster who goes back to Newcastle to get revenge on the men who killed his brother, but finds corruption and deceit around every corner. Caine’s performance in the part cemented him as one of the top leading men of British cinema. The film reflects the new social order of Britain during the early 1970s, revealing concerns of loyalty, revenge, and the decline of the old gangster code of conduct.
The Long Good Friday (1980)
The Long Good Friday features Bob Hoskins as Harold Shand, a brutish gangster whose empire is being threatened by a faceless adversary. While he navigates the complex web of politics and crime, he must face his own vulnerabilities. The film captures the newly emerging British face of crime at the end of the 1970s and beginning of the 1980s, depicting gangsters as businesspeople and the increasing clout of overseas crime syndicates. Released against a backdrop of massive economic and political change in Britain, the film captures a mood of upheaval and instability.
Brighton Rock (1948)
Directed in post-war England, Brighton Rock is a film that portrays a war-ravaged society grappling with the aftermath of war and the rise of juvenile delinquency. The film follows the life of a young gangster, Pinkie Brown, navigating the underworld of Brighton between his own conscience and the consequences of his actions. This classic film has left an indelible mark on many crime dramas that followed, with its characterization of the psychological depths of criminal protagonists.
Modern Thrills
Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels (1998)
Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels were instrumental in ushering the period of British crime comedy-dramas. A group of minor thieves get into a complex scheme of crime and deception, resulting in a chaotic and humorous succession of events. Guy Ritchie’s unique flair and sense of humor are displayed in full vigor, showcasing London as a kaleidoscopic backdrop for crime stories. The film’s success helped launch the careers of several actors and cemented London’s status as a hub for crime narratives.
Snatch (2000)
Snatch solidified Guy Ritchie’s reputation as a master of balancing humor and violence in a manner that is now quintessentially British. A heist of a diamond brings together an eccentric cast of characters in the London underworld of gangsters, bookmakers, and boxers. The diverse cast and intricately plotted plot twists have elevated the film into a cult status. Ritchie’s approach is all about wit and style, using quick-talking dialogue and vivid characters to create a dynamic viewing experience.
Sexy Beast (2000)
Sexy Beast offers a rich examination of its characters, particularly the explosive and troubled Don Logan, played by Ben Kingsley. A retired safecracker, Gal Dove, is threatened into one last job by Logan. As Dove works through his final heist, he must come to terms with his past and his desire for a peaceful life. The drama between Dove and Logan drives the narrative, with loyalty and redemption themes. The movie explores the tension between a life of crime and the desire for normalcy, with regard to the psychological price of crime.
Psychological Thrills
Shallow Grave (1994)
Shallow Grave sets the tone of psychological thrillers with its black humour and tension. Three friends discover a murdered flatmate and a stash of money, which sets them on a downward path of violence and paranoia as they try to get rid of the body. The tight setting of the film and the breakdown of the relationships between the characters create a suspenseful tension. The film brought in a turning point with the shift towards more psychologically grounded and suspense-driven plot-making in British cinema, influencing subsequent thrillers.
The Disappearance of Alice Creed (2009)
The Disappearance of Alice Creed unfolds with surprising twists, with two kidnappers abduct a wealthy heiress, Alice Creed. The film itself is concerned with control, power, and manipulation. The film is tight in its closed environment and in the entangled relationships among people. Its surprising twists keep spectators at the edge and inquisitive. The film focuses on the psychological game of cat-and-mouse among the kidnappers and the abductee, as it pulls out the psychological aspects of captivity and crime.
Contemporary Hits
The Gentlemen (2019)
The Gentlemen has Guy Ritchie back on top with this stylish and amusing crime caper. An American expat, Mickey Pearson, tries to offload his London cannabis empire, which leads to a series of violent confrontations with rival gangs and corrupt entrepreneurs. The film blends humor and action in the way that has become Ritchie’s hallmark. It raises themes of loyalty, power, and the changing nature of organized crime in London.
’71 (2014)
’71 embodies the ferocity and chaos of Belfast during wartime, using its breakneck pace and gritty location to entice viewers into the maelstrom. A British soldier is separated from his unit amidst a riot and has to survive the night, avoiding the perils of sectarian violence. Presented as being set at the height of the Troubles, ’71 provides a tense representation of the highs and lows of soldiers in Northern Ireland.
British crime thrillers offer a diverse and rich assortment of stories, from classic gangster films to modern psychological thrillers. Not only are they fun to watch, but they also provide an insight into British culture and society. They show the times changing, the nature of British humor, resilience, and the complexity of its social structure.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of the classic films that have shaped the British crime thriller genre, demonstrating their cultural significance and enduring appeal.
Off the massive universe of superhero films, “Black Adam” is an eye-catching, shocking release that is unorthodox by standards of traditional superhero fiction. Directed by Jaume Collet-Serra and toplined by unbridled actor Dwayne Johnson, the DC Comics adaptation is a bold reinterpretation of a radiant antihero adapted into big-screen cinema with unparalleled ferocity.
Cast: Dwayne Johnson, Pierce Brosnan, Aldis Hodge Director: Jaume Collet-Serra Type: Superhero Action/Fantasy Release Date: October 21, 2022
This is not your typical superhero movie. “Black Adam” is a genre-bending departure from the hero model of all-American virtue, presenting the viewer with an unflinching, morally ambivalent vision of power, revenge, and redemption.
Plot Summary (Spoiler-Free)
Born in ancient Kahndaq, Teth-Adam is granted superhuman powers by mysterious wizards to be a future savior or destroyer of his homeland. Transported into the modern world, Black Adam must struggle between his brutal passion for justice and the geo-politics of the new world where he knows nothing.
Guided by a vision of freedom and vengeance, he must discover what is right and wrong for himself as he confronts both external threats and the enticements of a world much more different from what he is accustomed to.
Film Moments
Opening Scene Influence
The film’s opening sequence is a world-building primer. A breathtakingly gorgeous historical prologue takes audiences to ancient Kahndaq and deposits them in the gory origins of Black Adam’s tragic past. The sequence creates a visceral feeling that distinguishes the film from other light-hearted superhero escapades.
Character Development
Dwayne Johnson delivers his career-best performance so far, depicting Black Adam as a complex character who defies easy categorization as a hero or a villain. His character brings much-needed moral complexity to the superhero genre, challenging presumptions of heroism and justice in the audience.
Cinematography and Visual Effects
“Black Adam” boasts amazing-looking visual effects that make superhuman abilities look real in a way never before attempted. Choreographed fight scenes are danced out with balletic violence, showcasing Johnson’s physique and the character’s strength at full extension.
Surprise Narrative Details
Giving the story depth, the inclusion of the Justice Society of America leads to interesting dynamics and moral conundrums that lead the plot away from a black-and-white good vs. evil track.
Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths
- Dwayne Johnson’s commanding on-screen presence
- Uniquely executed superhero ethics
- Thrill-inducing action set pieces
- Well-grounded world-building and historical context
- Well-executed visual effects
Potential Flaws
- A few of the plot reveals feel like well-worn territory for genre stalwarts
- Pacing issues in places in the second act
- Sparse character development for the supporting cast
“Black Adam” is an unapologetic remake of the superhero genre that will be enjoyed by fans who desire something new from the typical cape-and-mask fare. It’s perfect for fans of morally ambiguous heroes, graphic violence, and superhero movies that toy with classic storytelling.
Overall Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5 Stars)
Recommended for:
- DC Comics fans
- Action film enthusiasts
- Morally ambiguous heroes
- Frustrated audience members with classic superhero storytelling
Whether you are a fan of superheroes or just looking for an adrenaline-packed movie experience, “Black Adam” is a fresh, action-packed twist on the genre that is more than worth your time.
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