Thomas Storai 
“Moana 2 isn’t able to reach the emotional heights of the original as the story is rushed. However, it’s still a delightful adventure with catchy new songs and stunning animation.”
Eight years after the first film, Moana and Maui return for a new adventure. Is the film deserving of its predecessor’s acclaim, or will we find ourselves saying “no thanks” instead of “you’re welcome”?
STORY
Initially, this sequel was developed as a series for Disney +. It was in February 2024 that it was revealed it would be reworked as a film. And that’s a problem. Trying to tell a story as a series and film isn’t the same task. Moana 2 suffers from that. The story is rushed. You can tell it has a lot to tell but not enough time to do so. For this new adventure, Moana has a crew with her. These are characters you want to invest in, but they are never fully developed. An additional ten minutes introducing them would have been so beneficial.
However, what happened with Matangi was even worse. She is presented as a threat at the film’s beginning but then proceeds to disappear halfway through it without explaining who she is and her purpose in the story. Despite moving the plot forward, this sequel feels like a setup for Moana’s next adventure rather than its own adventure. It’s a shame because we have waited eight years for this. It should have been a memorable return. But, it fails to do so. Yes, the stakes are higher, but the film never reached the emotional heights of the original.
Despite all of that, Moana 2 is still an entertaining adventure. It’s flawed but still enjoyable for everyone in the family. Seeing Polynesian characters taking center stage in a Disney film for the second time makes me incredibly proud of my roots. Auliʻi Cravalho is still as inspiring in the role of Moana. At the same time, Dwayne Johnson remains sweet and fun as Maui. I love the character’s cockiness when he’s actually someone with a big heart. It’s a duo that works, and I think everyone will agree that we need more adventures with them.
VISUALS AND SOUNDTRACK
Undoubtedly, Moana 2 is visually stunning and colorful. It’s a beautiful sight for the eyes to return to Motunui and set sail once again. With impressive new creatures, new locations, and striking skylines, this film has what it takes for the big screen. So, it’s even more disappointing the story isn’t on the same level.
Mark Mancina and Opetaia Foa’i have once again composed the score. However, Lin Manuel Miranda was replaced by Emily Bear and Abigail Barlow for the songs. Though it’s not bad, you can tell right away that these are not Miranda’s songs. Bear and Barlow have crafted catchy new songs that fit the story. It makes you want to go on an adventure. The real highlight of the soundtrack for me is Foa’i’s latest songs. My biggest complaint about the first one was that we didn’t hear enough songs featuring Polynesian chants. The sequel has fixed that. As a half-Polynesian, I feel very proud to see this. Music is an integral part of our culture.
VERDICT
Moana 2 isn’t able to reach the emotional heights of the original. The story is rushed and feels like a setup for the next adventure rather than being its own thing. However, it’s still an entertaining adventure with catchy new songs and stunning animation.
Moana 2 releases on November 29 in cinemas.
Collectables and Anime Editor for Future Of The Force.
Star Wars expert and Japan connoisseur.
