Moana returns to the big screen with a long-awaited sequel. Our JP gives us his take on “Moana 2,” with returning voices of Auliʻi Cravalho, Dwayne Johnson, Temuera Morrison, Nicole Scherzinger, Rachel House, and Alan Tudyk.
Moana 2
DISNEY
- Directed by: Jason Hand, Dana Ledoux Miller, David G. Derrick Jr.
- Produced by: Yvett Merino, Christina Chen
- Executive produced by: Jennifer Lee, Jared Bush and Dwayne Johnson
- Original songs by: Abigail Barlow & Emily Bear, Opetaia Foa‘i, Mark Mancina
- Original score composed by: Mark Mancina
- Voice Cast: Auli‘i Cravalho, Dwayne Johnson, Hualālai Chung, Rose Matafeo, David
Fane, Awhimai Fraser, Khaleesi Lambert-Tsuda, Temuera Morrison, Nicole
Scherzinger, Rachel House, Gerald Faitala Ramsey, Alan Tudyk
Studio Synopsis:
Walt Disney Animation Studios’ epic animated musical “Moana 2” reunites Moana (voice of Auli‘i Cravalho) and Maui (voice of Dwayne Johnson) three years later for an expansive new voyage alongside a crew of unlikely seafarers. After receiving an unexpected call from her wayfinding ancestors, Moana must journey to the far seas of Oceania and into dangerous, long-lost waters for an adventure unlike anything she’s ever faced.
J.P.’s Take:
Families will be clambering for some feel-good family time over the holidays … no doubt. Parents with young ones who have experienced Disney’s uplifting first output of “Moana” will most likely seek out the equally delightful “Moana 2.”
“Moana’s” success was due to Disney’s formula of inspiring young people, especially young girls, to realize the strength and courage they have within. It was wonderfully animated, topped with an upbeat soundtrack, and memorable characters. “Moana 2” sports much of the same adventurous spirit even though it doesn’t dive too deep into the subject matter to lose the youngsters.
Offering a fresh and thrilling adventure, the story has that inspiring vibe that pulls in the audience. What stands out in “Moana 2” are the stunningly crafted landscapes and the lively characters, which elevate the narrative to new heights of bravery.
In the first film, released in 2016, we meet Moana (Auliʻi Cravalho), a dynamic Polynesian girl destined to become her village’s next chief. Her home, Motunui, faced dire challenges with hunger and decay, thus pushing her to take action. As a wayfinder at heart, Moana’s fierce determination to rescue her people drives her to embark on a daring journey across the ocean. She teams up with the demigod Maui (Dwayne Johnson) and a quirky group of locals, ready to face whatever comes their way. Initially, her father Tui (Temuera Morrison), the chief of Motunui, was against her quest, but Moana’s passion and courage shine through.
Whereas the first “Moana” film explored her roots and the coming of age of a young heroine, “Moana 2” dives slightly deeper into her brave new outlook. Her character feels freed up as she grows into a young woman that’s filled with hope and courage.
She faces an even more forbidding adversary, the storm god Nalo (Tofiga Fepulea’i), when she discovers the hidden island of Motufetu. This adventure also involves another crisis, as to the fate of her people and finding others across the ocean. As she explores other smaller islands around her she realizes there are no other villages in the immediate area. This brings together another set of unlikely heroes to take on this mission.
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“Moana 2” is a spirited adventure that dives into the vibrant Polynesian culture and highlights their deep bond with nature, community, and “beyond.” This is a theme you’ll hear time and again throughout this sequel.
I found myself completely dazzled by the stunningly colorful and intricately designed animated settings that brought the story to life.
Official Site: Moana 2
