Voyage across the seas once more in the sequel to the popular island Princess. Find out how far we’ll go in our Moana 2 Review!
Eight years ago Disney tempted fate to release a movie based upon Polynesian mythology, something never before done in such a big media space. To everyone’s amazement, Moana was an incredible hit, inspiring millions across the world and providing another Disney Princess with proper cultural heritage. Now, we return to the seas to see what is next for the titular explorer, but does this sequel float on its own or will it go down in the rough seas? Find out in our Moana 2 review!
Moana 2 Review – Story
Several years have passed and much has changed in Motunui, with Moana now being the village Wayfinder. Her goal is to find other people across the ocean to connect with in order for her village to flourish. A freak thunderstrike provides her with a vision, one where the ancient wayfinder Tautai Vasa tells her of a terrible curse at the hands of a powerful god, Nalo. He sank the island of Motofetu in order to keep the people of the ocean disconnected which he believes makes him more powerful.
The most adorable relationship in the movie.
Gathering a crew of new and likeable characters, she sets off on a voyage to break the curse. Her choice to set off on another mission is more difficult than last time as Moana is now old enough to understand what she could lose. Especially leaving Simea, her younger sister who she has a strong bond with. Moana’s new team consists of Loto, a quirky perfectionist canoe-builder, Moni, a strong and knowledgeable fan of Maui and Kele, a grumpy farmer who doesn’t know how to swim. Of course they bring along fan favourites Hei Hei and Pua for some chaotic but hilarious scenes.
Moana’s new crew needs a bit of training…
As the crew struggles to find a coherent balance in sailing, they come across a familiar foe, the Kakamora. Realising that they are just looking for a way home, they team up to take down a massive monster clam in the process of devouring their boats. However, Moana and her crew get sucked into the belly of the beast, literally, only to find Maui trapped there along with them.
The hair and bod returns!
They discover that the God, Matangi, has been locked away by Nalo and charged with stopping any humans on their way to break the curse. With multiple obstacles in their way, Moana, Maui and the rest of the crew must find a way out of the giant clam, reach the sunken island of Motofetu – all whilst avoiding the horrific storms sent by the God, Nalo, himself.
A chaotic, but somewhat, pointless addition
As this is a children’s Disney movie, the ending is somewhat expected, although, not without keeping you guessing right till the end. Overall, the story takes slightly long to set up with their journey to Motofetu rushed and a little convenient. However, the movie concludes in such a worthwhile and upbeat way, which even includes a tease that yet another sequel may be on the way.
Moana 2 Review – Acting
It is incredibly hard not to enjoy a performance by Dwayne Johnson as the Demi God, Maui, returns once more. Coupled with the fantastic new characters, Moana (Auliʻi Cravalho) does a brilliant job of expressing Moana’s trouble over increased responsibilities and having the world bear on her shoulders. The rest of the new characters are all enjoyable and not one voice actor misses a beat, especially Alan Tudyk as Hei Hei the chicken.
Might want to look the other way…
One part that may come across as slightly forced is some of the comedy throughout the film. A lot is silly and unfunny but still got laughs out of the younger audience for which it is aimed at. A fair bit was also based on throwbacks to the original that, whilst did have some comedic value, could have been lessened in favour of some potential adult jokes for the older viewers. That’s not to say Moana 2 isn’t funny, just somewhat trying too hard.
Bacon and egg boat snack!
Moana 2 Review – Visuals
There is no denying the classic Disney magic that always graces us in their movies, especially one filled with gorgeous ocean views. From the beginning, the range of colours, locations and creature designs leave you wanting more, fixating you to the screen to see what is next. Moana even has a new subtle outfit change, much to Maui’s disappointment that he wasn’t made aware.
The delightfully aggressive Kakamora return!
Moana 2 Review – Audio
Replicating a previous entry’s success is difficult, not to mention trying to top some of the most popular Disney songs of the last decade. Luckily the composers, Mark Mancina and Opetaia Foa’i, return from the original and they do a fantastic job. Whilst it is hard to tell if a song will be a hit before it releases to the world, there was definitely a good mix of slow tunes and more upbeat ones. Maui smashes it out of the park again with another catchy theme that we have been singing all week, check it out below!
Moana 2 Review – Conclusion
Moana 2 is the first movie to be released simultaneously in English and Māori. The first movie made waves when it was released in Tahitian at the same time, which shows how much of a huge cultural impact this character has on people. It’s clear everyone involved has a deep connection to this Polynesian princess as this film is made with love. Whilst it may not raise its sails as high as the first, especially in some slower parts, there is no doubt the Moana franchise will go far as it continues to inspire and bring fun to the whole family!
Oh and you’re welcome!
So, why should you watch Moana 2?
- Fun family movie for fans of Moana
- Amazing visuals with pretty catchy tunes
- Great new characters and returning ones
But why shouldn’t you watch Moana 2?
- Story isn’t as solid as the first, mostly for older viewers
- Comedy seems forced
- A few darker scenes may frighten the younger audience members
A preview screening was kindly provided by Disney AU for the purpose of our Moana 2 review. If you enjoyed this review, be sure to check out our review for Deadpool and Wolverine Review and join the Qualbert Discord to chat with us about all things Disney!
