Review: Moana 2
After reading some of the initial reviews, I was skeptical about Moana 2. However, now that I've seen it, I can say with confidence that it is an underrated classic like Wish. While it may be an infamous Disney sequel that was converted from a failed concept for an animated series, we've come a long way from the days when Disney would slap three barely finished episodes together and call it a sequel. This is a polished, complete, and cohesive story with theatrical-quality animation and music. I am grateful that Disney finally released something original instead of another live-action remake. Considering the destructive path they've been on lately, this movie is a step in the right direction. It is a return to what Disney does best--beautiful animation, songs, and a thrilling adventure story with a spirited princess-like heroine that is on par with the original film.
A few years have passed since Moana's big adventure of returning the heart to Te Fiti so her people could be voyagers again. She now has tons of admirers including a little sister named Simea. Despite what the marketing might imply, Simea plays a small role in Moana 2, which is actually a good thing. Crafting a contrived rescue mission for her would make it too similar to other princess movie clichés from the past five years including The Princess and Damsel. Instead, the movie continues Moana's quest to find new civilizations when she discovers a vital clue to finding people beyond her island. A vision of her people dying out and leaving the island of Motonui and its culture lost forever spurs her on a quest to compile a small crew consisting of a posh boat architect, a grouchy farmer, and a Maui fanboy to discover new civilizations. These character introductions were just enough to keep the movie feeling fresh without getting too overwhelming. Meanwhile, the sinister god Nalo holds Maui captive while he is taunted by the mysterious demigoddess, Matangi.
The "good" characters are where the movie really shines. Moana does an outstanding job as a leader for a new adventure team, especially after embarking on her first journey alone. Loto is a no-frills boat expert who is always eager to rip the boat apart to make quick improvements along with a little snark on the side. Moni is a muscular Maui wannabe with a passion for storytelling. He has the same reaction to meeting Maui that he expected Moana to have in the first movie. Kele is a grouchy old farmer who acts as the recluse of the group and gets dragged along against his will. Meanwhile, the adorable little Simea wants to join Moana on her journey, but Moana explains that she is too young, leaving the potential for another sequel with an older Simea joining her sister for new adventures. Though not composed by Lin-Manuel Miranda this time, the music in the film is also on par with the original. I particularly enjoyed the hauntingly catchy melody of "Beyond."
Moana's new adventure is packed with exciting and emotional moments that ultimately lead to a satisfying conclusion. However, there are a few underdeveloped parts of the story that may have worked better as a series or were meant to tease a potential third movie. The fact that we never see a physical form of Nalo outside of a massive storm makes his presence more abstract than we normally see for Disney villains. The transformation of Te Kā into Te Fiti is one of the most memorable moments from Moana. While this movie does end with a different magical transformation, the villain plays no part in it. Matangi is also an underdeveloped character who initially appears to be a villain until we learn that she is also a victim of Nalo. She has a memorable character design, personality, and voice, but her story is left unresolved outside of a post-credit teaser.
Comments