Moana 2 - A dazzling yet dimmer sequel

Disney’s Moana 2 is a bold return to the high seas, bringing back one of animation’s most beloved heroines, though it doesn’t always stick to the landing. The original Moana (2016) was widely celebrated for its stunning animation, empowering storyline, and standout music.

With this follow-up, Disney takes a risk, packing Moana 2 with oceanic battles and vibrant new settings. Yet, it struggles to evoke the heartfelt charm and emotional stakes that made its predecessor a modern classic.

A new adventure with familiar faces

The story takes place three years after the original, with Moana (Auliʻi Cravalho) now a seasoned Wayfinder. Answering a summons from the island elders, she embarks on a new journey to rescue Maui (Dwayne Johnson), who is mysteriously imprisoned in a peculiar bat cave guarded by a gigantic, bioluminescent monster clam.

Joining Moana are her usual sidekicks—her anxious pig and bumbling chicken—alongside a vibrant new crew: an enthusiastic, wide-eyed fanboy who idolizes her, a fiercely creative inventor with a knack for trouble, and a tired farmer whose sarcasm hides a brave heart. Together, they sail across the ocean in a high-stakes, mythic adventure.

Stunning animation but cluttered storytelling

Visually, Moana 2 upholds Disney's lush animation with mesmerizing ocean waves, ethereal bioluminescence, and a breathtaking underwater world that feels alive in every frame. The film’s aesthetic remains charming and immersive, with an eye-catching world that doesn’t distract with too much modern-day commentary, aside from a brief TikTok-style dance and a mention of fanfiction.

While the film’s animation is stunning, the narrative feels cluttered and slightly rushed. The plot’s pacing is brisk but sometimes leaves character development and essential backstory behind. Maui's reappearance is welcome, but his role feels a bit underdeveloped, with the reasons behind his entrapment never fully explained. The new characters are fun, but they don’t have the same depth or resonance as Moana herself, who remains the film’s shining star.

Moana: The heart of the sequel

Moana's fierce independence, optimism, and leadership continue to make her one of Disney's most captivating and dynamic heroines, and her spirit keeps the movie moving forward. The film shines most when focusing on Moana herself—her determination and resourcefulness continue to inspire, making her the true heart of the sequel.

Music: A decent effort, but not quite as memorable

The musical numbers, while decent, do not live up to the unforgettable songs from the first film. While the new tracks bring energy and fun to the story, they lack the emotional resonance and timeless quality of hits like How Far I’ll Go, or You’re Welcome.

Critical Reception: A Mixed Bag

Critically, Moana 2 has faced mixed reviews. While audiences appreciate revisiting Moana’s vibrant world, critics have cited its reliance on safe storytelling and underdeveloped characters as reasons it falls short of its predecessor. On Rotten Tomatoes, it sits at 66%, a significant drop from the original's 95%.

Part of this could be attributed to the high expectations set by its predecessor, which set a near-impossible bar. But it's also clear that while Moana 2 delivers on adventure and heart, it lacks some of the originality and emotional depth that made the first film stand out.

Entertaining, but Not Iconic

Moana 2 delivers dazzling visuals and seafaring thrills, but it falls just shy of its predecessor's iconic status. It’s a safe bet for fans of the first film and for younger audiences looking for a bright, mythic adventure, but it falls short of becoming its predecessor's iconic film.

Disney might not have pushed creative boundaries with Moana 2, but the sequel proves that Moana’s adventurous spirit still has the power to inspire and entertain.