Ever since I saw the first Moana, I remember how fascinated I was by how much the movie transported me to a whole new world. With its stunning landscapes and a story rich in mythology, the film became one of my favorites from Disney. So, when Moana 2 was announced, my curiosity was piqued. After all, how do you go any further in a story that already seemed perfect? This sequel though, it arrived with a different proposal: less grand, but much more committed to deepening the connection with Hawaiian and Pacific Island culture.
What became clear to me while watching Moana 2 was the effort put into exploring the cultural roots in an even more authentic way. While the first movie introduced the islands’ concepts and traditions in a broad way, the sequel dives headfirst into the complexities of these cultures. It's impossible not to admire the care the creators took to avoid stereotypes and honor the history and traditions that inspire Moana's universe. No wonder the film had its world premiere in Hawaii, as a tribute to the people who inspired its narrative.
I must confess that, in terms of plot, I found Moana 2 to be somewhat inferior to the first. The story doesn't have the same freshness and boldness that had me hooked years ago. This time, Moana faces a more internal conflict that explores her role as leader and guardian of her people. The tone is more reflective and less adventurous, which may not appeal to everyone. However, there is something charming about the way the film balances narrative and cultural authenticity. To me, this authenticity is what really sustains the movie and makes it relevant. In a world where animated films have a huge influence on both young people and adults, seeing a production so committed to respecting and properly representing cultures is inspiring, to say the least.
The new songs, composed by Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear , bring a different energy to the soundtrack. Although they don't have the immediate impact of Lin-Manuel Miranda 's music in the first movie, they still manage to capture the spirit of the islands. To me, the soundtrack of Moana 2 works more as a backdrop to the narrative than as a protagonist, which also reflects the change in tone of the film.
A highlight of the movie is how it deepens Moana's relationship with her homeland and her role as a leader. The scenes showing local rituals, music and traditions aren't just there to fill the screen with vibrant colors—they have meaning and purpose. This makes Moana 2 a richer experience, even if not as impactful as the original. In addition, the movie stands out by addressing issues such as environmental preservation and the importance of valuing ancestral wisdom. These messages are not only relevant, but also essential in this day and age.
Another aspect that caught my eye was the warm reception Moana 2 received at the box office. The movie broke records over Thanksgiving weekend, grossing an impressive $221 million in its first five days. This performance is proof of how iconic Moana has become for audiences of all ages. Despite criticisms that point to a lack of originality in the plot, clearly the cultural impact of the franchise remains as strong as ever.
I really value the impact that stories like this have on audiences. Disney could well have opted for a more “generic” sequel, full of adventures and easy jokes. Instead, Moana 2 takes a risk by pursuing a narrative that demands more attention and sensitivity. To me, this is something rare and worthy of praise, even if the movie isn't perfect.
At the end of the day, I think Moana 2 not only reinforces the legacy of the first film, but also sets a standard for how animations can be more than just entertainment. This is a movie that celebrates cultures, teaches us about the importance of respect and inclusion, and still manages to create moments of visual and emotional beauty. It may not have the same immediate impact as the original, but at its core, it is a step forward for Disney and the whole animation genre.
So, I left the screening of Moana 2 feeling both a sense of nostalgia and satisfaction. Although not perfect, it shows that there is plenty of room for the animation to grow, especially when it embraces authenticity as a priority. And who knows, maybe that's Moana's greatest legacy: teaching that there is strength in listening, learning and sharing stories in a genuine way.
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