As Aquaman prepares to close out a year filled with comic book-inspired megabits, it’s clear that Jason Momoa is cementing his superhero status with his role as the iconic character.
While the movie has received positive accolades from both fans and critics alike, it’s not Momoa’s acting skills that have had people talking over the last few days, but rather his dance moves.
Before the Los Angeles premiere of Aquaman, Jason Momoa wowed the crowd as he led the cast, crew, and his family in the haka.
Momoa stated that the haka, which is an important part of Polynesian culture, was performed as a way to honor not just his family, but the culture in general.
The haka is a type of ancient Māori war dance traditionally used on the battlefield, as well as when groups came together in peace. Haka is a fierce display of a tribe’s pride, strength, and unity. Actions include violent foot-stamping, tongue protrusions and rhythmic body slapping to accompany a loud chant. The words of a haka often poetically describe ancestors and events in the tribe’s history. Today, haka are still used during Māori ceremonies and celebrations to honor guests and show the importance of the occasion. This includes family events, like birthdays and weddings.
While some critics challenged Momoa’s authenticity of the dance and questioned whether or not he, a Hawaiian, was culturally appropriating a dance native to South Pacific tribes, most people were generally impressed.
As excited as fans are about the movie, they are less than thrilled about the soundtrack- specifically, Pitbull’s sampling of 80’s hit classic “Africa” by Toto on the movie’s closing credits’ song.
While Mr. Worldwide might not have a musical hit on his hands, it’s clear that Momoa does, with talks for a sequel reportedly already in the works.
