Moana is an inspiration to girls everywhere, creating a mindset for young adults that anything is possible. Her character motivates girls to advocate for their better good.
“Moana 2” follows the story of our protagonist, Moana, as she journeys to the far seas of Oceania after receiving a call from her wayfaring ancestors. She crafts a small team of islanders and sets off in hopes of finding the lost island of Motu Fetu, breaking the curse placed on it and helping reconnect the people of the ocean.
Pacer NYC reviewers had differing assessments of the movie. Read these critical reviews and decide for yourself.
A Bold Return to the Seas, Brimming with Adventure and Heart
by Skai Aiken Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Moana 2” was released in November of 2024, a continuation of the first movie’s plot. Moana continues to save her island from extinction, and she must find other foreigners on near and far islands. Not long after she assembles a troop and rides the waves into a dreadful storm that almost took their lives.
Moana finds a solution to her hiccup in her journey and another problem starts to approach. Moana and friends find Maui and get sent on a deeper mission that isn’t just about her people. After many near-death experiences they face together, they all realise the importance of their mission. She knows that if they do not succeed it will bring death, not only to her island and her people but may put the whole world in danger.
An Inspiration
The directors of “Moana 2” wanted to explore a film that shows self searching, bravery and cultural identity. They were also inspired by the mythical and diverse cultures of the Pacific Islands. They’ve created a story about a young strong female leading character who goes on an adventure.
Ron Clements, the director of the first ‘Moana” wanted to move away from traditional princess fairytales and instead focused on a female character who challenges herself and takes control of her own destiny. The team worked closely with cultural experts and local communities to make sure the film was as authentic and pure as their passion for the Polynesian culture.
Both “Moana” movies are equally good, however the “I can do anything and dream bigger” plot of the second movie makes it more empowering.
Considering the fact that the first and second “Moana” were released nine years apart just shows the dedication the directors had to make this movie a girl’s dream come true. “Moana 2” warms me like sunshine.
“Moana 2” Drops the Bar Established by the First “Moana”
by Madison Dixon Rating: ⭐⭐⭐✩✩
Animation
The first “Moana” has a reputation for having amazing animation, as the visuals and character design were absolutely phenomenal. And comparing this to “Moana 2,” these aspects still stand. The visuals and special effects used throughout the movie were breathtaking, from the tropical landscapes to the glistening ocean.
It all helps bring this immersive world to the audience and is drop dead gorgeous.
Which is insane, especially knowing the fact that this sequel was initially supposed to be a TV show. Typically, TV shows get smaller budgets than movies, so the animation often comes off cheap-looking and unfinished.
That the animators were able to keep the visuals looking so lush and immersive is quite the feat.
Music
“Moana” is also known for its amazing songs, each one is quite memorable from “How Far I’ll Go” to “You’re Welcome” to even the traditional cultural tunes. We can say thanks to Lin-Manuel Miranda for this. Yet, memorability is what the songs in “Moana 2” lack.
Don’t get me wrong, some of the songs are great and really capture listeners’ attention. Yes, some are incredibly camp and complement the narrative well. They help really display the journey these characters face. However, they just aren’t that memorable and they just leave me with a feeling as if they are lacking something. It is clear that the songs are trying to capture the feeling that Lin-Manuel emulated from the first movie, but just can’t.
Plot and Pacing
The plot’s pacing is quite rushed. I know it was initially supposed to be a TV show, so it being cut down and thrown into a 90-minute movie isn’t leaving a lot of room for success. However, there are genuinely some parts where it leaves me quite confused. I felt like a lot of themes and moments are muddled by parts being left out or cut from the final production.
Ultimately, the plot feels like a rehashing of the first one, with Moana once again setting off on a journey to find herself and save her people. The plot ends up being quite predictable, and the stakes end up feeling incredibly low as they’re not even present that much.
Despite all the flaws, the movie is still pretty enjoyable to watch. Mostly the animation is carrying the film, and there still are parts that left me laughing or feeling genuinely heart-wrenched.
