35/42
Bacon *and* eggs?
Line of Events
After an unexpected phone call from her ancestors seeking a way out, Moana must venture to the far seas of Oceania and dangerous, long-lost waters for an adventure unlike anything she’s ever faced. Originally launched as a television series in 2020, with plans to air the series on Disney+, the series was adapted into a theatrical sequel in February 2024. [From the trailer] Moana: Maui? Maui: [picks up Hei Hei] Boat snack! [Pua falls into his other hand] Maui: Upgrade Boat snack!
I thought it was great
[Pua snorts] Maui: Why didn’t you bring a pig last time?. Next up is Moana: The Quest for Mythic Water (2016). The original Moana was a movie that surprised me. It was brimming with heart, humor, and unforgettable songs by Lin-Manuel Miranda. The performances, especially Dwayne Johnson as Maui and Auli i Cravalho as Moana, brought the characters to life in a way that felt fresh.
One of the biggest differences is the music
Naturally, I was looking forward to seeing how the sequel would expand on the charm of the first film. However, while Moana 2 is enjoyable, it doesn’t quite capture the same magic that made the original so special to me. Since Miranda didn’t return to compose the songs, the sequel lacks the same level of musical brilliance. The new songs are decent and serviceable, but they lack the catchy, emotionally resonant quality that made tracks 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 less integrated into the overall experience.
Visually, Moana 2 is a feast for the eyes
The story also feels like a weaker reflection of the original. Without delving into spoilers, the plot returns to themes and beats that are all too familiar, which may leave fans unsatisfied. That said, the ending provides a heartfelt resolution that ties everything together in a satisfying way. Despite losing momentum midway through, the final act does a great job of recapturing the emotional core of the story, making me curious to see 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 alive and vibrant.
It’s worth a watch for fans of the first film, even if it doesn’t quite live up to its predecessor
While the sequel doesn’t quite reach the same heights as the original in terms of story or music, it’s still an enjoyable watch.