After eight years of waiting, Moana 2 has finally arrived. The first film garnered critical acclaim for its animation, music, and storytelling. It also became a cultural touchstone celebrating Polynesian heritage and empowering audiences with its bravery and self-discovery story. Luckily, Moana 2 is a fresh adventure that expands on Moana’s world while delivering the same magic and wonder that made the first film a classic.
Moana 2 follows Moana’s unexpected call from her wayfinding ancestors urging her to journey into the dangerous, uncharted waters of long-lost oceans. Accompanied by Maui and a new, eclectic crew, Moana sets out to expand her horizons and confront challenges that push her to the limits.
In Moana 2, Moana truly shines as a skilled Wayfinder. Watching her grow from a determined island girl into a hero charting her path is inspiring and satisfying. Additionally, the new characters in the sequel are enjoyable and add a lot of depth to the story. It’s impressive how they introduced fresh faces without them feeling forced or gimmicky—something that often happens in sequels. Each character has a distinct personality, and the film allows them to shine at various points in the movie.
Visually, the sequel matches the original’s high standard. The animation captures the beauty and vastness of the ocean with vivid colors and fluidity. While there aren’t any distinct artistic departures from the first film, that’s not a criticism—Disney’s animation was stunning then, and it’s just as impressive now. The ocean, in particular, remains a standout character, brought to life through breathtaking animation.
Moana 2 is a magical and entertaining film with a compelling story, lovable characters, and dazzling visuals.
Unfortunately, the absence of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s musical touch is keenly felt. While the songs are enjoyable, they lack the immediate, earworm-like quality of hits like “How Far I’ll Go” or “You’re Welcome.” Still, the soundtrack has some catchy tunes like “Can I Get a Chee Hoo?” or “What Could Be Better Than This?” Also, the film’s antagonist and conflict aren’t explained well. The information is slim, and it looks like it might be saved for future Moana projects.
Despite the less memorable soundtrack, Moana 2 manages to live up to its predecessor’s legacy. The story feels fresh rather than a retread, and the characters’ journeys are as impactful as the first time. Fans of the original will find plenty to love, and newcomers can dive into this sequel without missing a beat.
For those considering how to watch Moana 2, 4DX is, without question, the top choice. The 4DX elements transform the viewing into an interactive Disney ride. From the moment Moana sets sail, the motion chairs simulate the rocking of the waves while air blasts and water sprays immerse you in the stormy sequences. The adventurous and ocean-themed setting of Moana 2 is a perfect fit for the 4DX format, and the immersive experience makes every ocean wave and gust of wind feel tangible. It’s like experiencing a simulator ride at Disneyland while watching a Disney animated film.
Overall, Moana 2 is a magical and entertaining film with a compelling story, lovable characters, and dazzling visuals. It’s a sequel that honors the original. While the music may not be as impactful, the overall experience—especially in 4DX—makes it worth watching.
Rating: 3.5/5 atoms
Moana 2 hits theaters on November 27th.
