23/15
[from trailer] Moana: Maui?Maui: [raises Hei Hei] Ship’s snack!
Line of Events
After receiving an unexpected call from her pathfinder ancestors, Moana must journey to the far-off seas of Oceania and into dangerous, long-lost waters for an adventure unlike any she’s ever seen before. Hear from the cast of Moana 2 as the sequel expands on the original film while paying homage to fan-favorite characters and details. Originally launched as a 2020 television series, with plans to air on Disney+, the series was adapted into a theatrical sequel in February 2024. [Pua falls into his other hand] Maui: Ship’s snack upgrade!
Bacon *and* eggs?
[Pua snorts] Maui: Why didn’t you bring a pig last time?. Next up is Moana: Quest for the Mythical Island (2016). The original Moana was a surprise hit. I thought it was great.
One of the biggest differences is the music
It was full of heart, humor, and unforgettable songs by Lin-Manuel Miranda. The performances, especially Dwayne Johnson as Maui and Auli and Cravalho as Moana, brought the characters to life in a way that felt fresh. Of course, I couldn’t wait to see how the sequel would expand on the magic of the first film. However, Moana 2, while enjoyable, doesn’t quite capture the same magic that made the original so stand out to me.
Still, the ending provides a heartfelt resolution that ties everything together in a satisfying way
Since Miranda didn’t return to compose the songs, the sequel lacks the same level of musical brilliance. The new songs are decent and useful, but they don’t have the infectious, emotionally resonant quality that made songs like “How Far I’ll Go” memorable. While the melodies in Moana 2 are enjoyable, they fail to leave a lasting impression, making the musical aspect of the film seem less integral to the overall experience. Without going into spoilers, the plot returns to themes and rhythms that feel all too familiar, which might leave fans unsatisfied.
Visually, Moana 2 is a feast for the eyes
Despite losing momentum in the middle, the final act does a great job of recapturing the emotional core of the story, leaving me curious about what future adventures might look like. The animation remains top-notch, with solid visuals of the ocean, lush islands, and intricate details that make the world feel vibrant and alive. While the sequel doesn’t quite reach the heights of the original in terms of story or music, it’s still enjoyable to watch. For fans of the first film, it’s worth a watch, even if it doesn’t quite live up to its predecessor.