In a world where sequels can often feel like retreads, Walt Disney Animation Studios’ latest release, Moana 2, is much of the same. The film picks up three years after the events of the original, and what follows is an adventure that makes a lot more sense when you know this movie was originally intended to be a TV series.
Auli’i Cravalho reprises her role as Moana, and she’s just as radiant and confident as before. Her voice acting is just as captivating, conveying the character’s growth and determination with ease. Dwayne Johnson returns as Maui, and his humor and charm are unchanged.
Moana 2 expands the story’s world and takes us to uncharted waters, literally and figuratively, as Moana and her crew embark on a quest that will test their skills, courage, and wits. The animation is fantastic, as expected, with lush environments and visually appealing set pieces.
The music in Moana 2 falls a bit flat when compared to the original. The original songs by Grammy-winning artists Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear, Grammy nominee Opetaia Foa’i, and three-time Grammy winner Mark Mancina are enjoyable, but forgettable. I wish the soundtrack did a better job of capturing the wonder and adventure of the original film.
Director David Derrick Jr., co-director Jason Hand, and producer Yvett Merino have crafted a story that’s personal and attempts to be epic in scope. Moana 2 is worth a watch, but don’t have hopes that are too high for this one.
There is, however, a Disney Princess joke in the film that was perfectly done.
Have you seen Moana 2? What did you think?
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