Moana 2

Last time we learned about how far she will go, but what new adventure awaits our favorite wayfinder? And how does it stack up against the last one? As a sequel to the original 2016 release, Moana 2packs an equally strong punch of adventure with a new baddie, an expanded crew and a reminder of the importance of home and community. 

After defeating Te Fiti and restoring the heart, Moana (Auli’l Cravalho) has now found her groove as the wayfinder for her village, Montenui. However, her search beyond the reef has proven to be rather fruitless as every island she encounters appears to be lacking the one thing her and her village dream for the most: other villages and villagers to connect with. But as fate would have it, Moana has a vision from ancestor Tautai Vasa (Gerald Ramsey) that propels her into another adventure to discover the reason behind the missing villagers and reunite the islands once and for all….with a little help…from demigod Maui (Dwayne Johnson) and Heihei (Alan Tudyk) to trusted villagers Moni (Hualalai Chung), Loto (Rose Matafeo), Kele (David Fane) and Pua. The group searches for the island of Motufetu to break the curse of Nalo (Tofiga Fepulea’i) and unite the neighboring islands once again. 

While the original Moanahad the pleasure of music contributed by Mark Mancina and Lin-Manuel Miranda, this time Mancina takes the helm and continues to deliver music in that same whimsicalstorytelling style. The way that the lyrics weave into the storyline is reminiscent of the first movie and providesa much-needed comfort as Moana navigates even more uncomfortable situations on the sea. And yet there are times where the dialogue would have benefited from less music, especially in those tense situations.Music does drive both films, but the delicate balance between the dialogue and music almost missed the mark. 

However, what truly shines in this one is the new villain, storm-god Nalo…who is adamant about keeping the islands apart from one another. Nalo is prepared to take no prisoners like Te Ka, yet what sets these villains apart is the lack of heart. While in the original film Moana could see that Te Ka was merely Te Fiti sans heart, Nalo provides proof that not all baddies are seeking redemption. Instead, true villains are out to punish good people and make that hardship stick. However, one of the most endearing moments that reminds us not all bad guys stay bad is the return of the Kakamora….who are now merely trying to survive and return to their home as quickly as possible. The teaming up provides for a sweet realization between Moana and the Kakamora, showing both groups want nothing more than what is best for their tribe. 

With Moana 2 you will laugh, you will cry and possibly laugh some more! If you’re looking for a decent sequel and music that is semi-equally as catch as the first movie, Moana 2 is a sure bet.The adults will love the jokes and the kids will be enjoying the music. And above all else, it’s a story of overcoming adversity for all.