Disney’s “Moana” was a classic and favorite movie with the adventure that introduced fans to the fierce and determined Polynesian “Moana” and her journey across the sea.

With its visuals, empowering story, and unforgettable soundtrack, it quickly became a favorite. So when news broke that “Moana 2” was in the works, expectations were high. Would it live up to the magic of the first?

While “Moana 2” is very entertaining, it doesn’t quite capture the same spark that made the original so special.

The Plot

“Moana 2” picks up a few years after the first film, with Moana now fully embracing her role as the chief of her village, ready to lead her people into a new era. The story focuses on her newest adventure — a quest to save her island from a new looming threat and to unite other villages from the ocean.

While this provides plenty of room for thrilling moments and emotional growth, the storyline just doesn’t hit as hard as the original.

The movie explores new challenges for Moana, as she must confront external issues. While  there are a few catchy tunes in the sequel, none of them seem to pack the same emotional punch or sense of timelessness as the songs from the first film.

The music is still good, but it feels more like a collection of pleasant tracks rather than dangers and internal doubts about her leadership. While the themes of self-discovery and leadership are still there, the plot lacks the urgency and stakes that made the first movie so compelling.

The original “Moana” was a journey of self-empowerment and destiny, and it felt like the whole world was at stake. In comparison, “Moana “2 feels like a much smaller story, with stakes that aren’t as high or as emotionally charged.

Music

One of the standout features of Moana was its incredible soundtrack. Songs like “How Far I’ll Go” and “You’re Welcome” became instant classics that stayed with you long after the credits rolled. Unfortunately, “Moana 2” doesn’t quite have the same musical magic. The filmmakers tried to recapture the musical energy of the first film, but in my opinion, the songs in Moana 2 don’t stand out in the same way.

Visuals

On the visual front, “Moana 2” does not disappoint. The animation is beautiful, with the lush landscapes, turquoise ocean and vibrant skies returning to the screen.

The character designs and movements are great, and the movie makes use of the Pacific island settings, continuing the visual excellence set by the first movie.

Even though the story and music may not quite live up to the original, the visuals and adventure continue to be a highlight.

Characters

Moana is still as strong, confident, and lovable as ever, and her relationship with Maui still provides some of the film’s most fun moments. Moana also now has a little sister.

Some the new characters feel a bit less developed this time around. While the first movie spent time building relationships, “Moana 2″ seems to focus more on action and adventure, leaving some characters feeling underused. 

Maui has a reduced role in the sequel, and while his humor still provides laughs, he doesn’t quite have the same impact as he did in the first film. The emotional moments that made their dynamic so heartwarming are fewer and farther between.

Final thoughts

In the end, “Moana 2” is an entertaining film that will satisfy fans of the original, but it doesn’t quite feel as magical as the first. While the animation is stunning, the storyline feels less impactful, and the music doesn’t have the same lasting power.

If you’re looking for a fun, visually captivating movie with a familiar face, you’ll enjoy “Moana 2.” It’s a fun and entertaining follow-up, but not the masterpiece that the first movie was.

By Nora Felty. Images courtesy of Disney