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When Disney surprised fans with the announcement of “Moana 2” in February 2024, there was a sense of apprehension in the air. The sudden revelation that a TV show had been transformed into a feature film so close to its November release date raised questions about whether this sequel was a rushed attempt by Disney to recover from some box office disappointments in 2023. Would this rush job sacrifice quality for the sake of a quick turnaround?
Fortunately, “Moana 2” quickly put these worries to rest with its epic adventure and heartfelt story about family ties. While there were some elements that didn’t quite hit the mark, such as a generic villain and less impactful songs, overall “Moana 2” stood up to, and at times even surpassed, its predecessor. Much of this success can be attributed to the growth of its incredible heroine.
### Moana 2 reminds you that Moana is a certified star
Even if you haven’t revisited the original “Moana” since its release in 2016, “Moana 2” wastes no time in reminding you that Moana is a force to be reckoned with. From her daring feats in the opening sequence to her status as a living legend on Motunui, Moana’s character shines through. When faced with a vision of her island’s bleak future, Moana must make a tough choice that showcases just how much she has evolved since her first journey.
### Moana 2’s new characters make an exciting adventure even better
In “Moana 2,” Moana is joined by a new crew of adventurers, each bringing their own quirks and skills to the table. From the enthusiastic inventor Loto to the grumpy farmer Kele, the dynamics among the new characters add depth to the story. While facing off against foes like the coconut pirates and the giant clam, the absence of a compelling villain like Te Kā from the original film is felt. Despite this, the colorful cast of characters and the thrilling escapades make “Moana 2” a worthy sequel to the beloved original.
Fortunately, Moana 2 explores different connections, from Moana’s relationships with Maui and her crewmates to her bond with her ancestors. Gramma Tala (Thor: Ragnarok‘s Rachel House) returns to share wisdom and touch our hearts. Moana’s belief in uniting the people of the ocean contrasts Nalo’s desire for discord and isolation. Moana’s positivity and determination demonstrate the power of connection, especially as her crew strengthens their bond at sea.
Moana 2’s Songs vs. Moana’s Hits
Featuring stunning animation and a thrilling adventure across the ocean, Moana 2 is another success for Disney. However, the film’s songs fall short compared to the beloved tracks from the original Moana.
While composers Mark Mancina and Opetaia Foa’i return for Moana 2, the absence of Lin-Manuel Miranda is felt in the songs. New songwriters Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear deliver decent tunes, but they lack the magic of Miranda’s work, leaving the songs feeling like pale imitations of the first film’s music.
Despite the underwhelming songs, the animated sequences that accompany them add a spark to the musical moments. The visuals enhance the experience, turning average songs into memorable scenes.
Moana 2 is now available for rental or purchase on platforms like Apple TV and Prime Video.
