Moana 2 Ups The Stakes In New Adventure!

Musicals are having their moment! From Wicked to Moana 2, movie musicals are poised to take over the box office this holiday season. Originally developed as a limited series for Disney+, Moana 2 was reworked for a theatrical release. Set three years after the first film, Moana forms a crew and reunites with demigod Maui for a whole new voyage. Together they work to break a curse on the hidden island of Motufetu that separates all the people of the ocean.

Moana (Auli’i' Cravalho) and Maui (Dwayne Johnson) are back like they never left! While I could take or leave some of the new characters, they really up the stakes in this adventure. The animation is truly magical as it centers around a story of unifying people. The final act of the film levels Moana up as a leader and a wayfinder in a way that is satisfying and emotional. It’s a truly must see moment for fans of the strong-willed voyager!

I’ve already got the new soundtrack on repeat featuring incredible music by Grammy winning duo Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear. You can hear their signature style intertwined with the Polynesian culture in sure-to-be hit songs like the soaring “Beyond” and vibey disco track “Get Lost.”

A new character I wish we got to see explores even further was the mysterious Matangi, voiced by Awhimai Fraser. She had a stand out performance that draws you in, but then doesn’t return until a mid-credits scene at the end of the film. I would’ve liked to see more of her. Meanwhile, Moana’s crew of Loto, Kele, and Moni didn’t make a big impact and the addition of Moana’s little sister Simea was cute, but felt like it came out of nowhere.

All in all, families will have a ton of fun with Moana 2! It’s a worth continuation that teases there could be even more to come in this stunning world.

Moana 2 hits theaters this Thanksgiving.