Moana 2 Review: How Does It Compare To The First One?

Disney's "Moana 2," released in November 2024, has garnered a spectrum of reactions from critics and audiences alike. While the film achieved significant box office success, surpassing $1 billion globally, its critical reception has been mixed, reflecting both commendations and criticisms.

Visual Excellence

One of the most consistently praised aspects of "Moana 2" is its stunning animation. The film continues Disney's legacy of visual storytelling with vibrant and detailed imagery. The depiction of water, a central element in the narrative, is particularly noteworthy. As highlighted by Deseret News, "The animation of the water, in particular, is remarkable, and the movie is bright and visually engaging enough to keep even the rowdiest child sitting for the 1 hour and 40 minutes."

Narrative and Character Development

The storyline of "Moana 2" has been a focal point of critique. While the original film was lauded for its compelling narrative and character arcs, the sequel has faced scrutiny for its plot structure and character utilization. The New York Post describes the sequel as "a likable yet somewhat underwhelming follow-up aimed primarily at young children," noting that the plot "lacks the distinctiveness and involvement of its predecessor."

Additionally, the film's pacing and character development have been points of contention. Vulture criticizes the movie for lacking genuine conflict and dynamic villains, stating that "obstacles are easily overcome through uninspiring songs rather than meaningful struggles." The antagonist, Nalo, a storm god, is described as appearing late in the film and lacking depth, presenting minimal threat.

Musical Composition

Music plays a pivotal role in Disney animated features, and "Moana 2" is no exception. However, the sequel's soundtrack has received mixed reviews. The departure of Lin-Manuel Miranda, who composed the original film's acclaimed songs, is evident. The new compositions by Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear have been described as lacking the vibrancy of the original. Pajiba notes, "All the songs are dull, the lyrics are lazy, and they do almost nothing to advance plot and character."

Conversely, some reviews offer a more positive perspective. TechRadar acknowledges that while none of the new songs reach the heights of "You're Welcome" from the original, the film still contains "catchy songs" and "fun dynamics between characters, old and new."

Audience Reception

Audience reactions have been varied. Some viewers appreciate the film's visual appeal and the return of beloved characters, while others feel it doesn't capture the magic of the original. An eight-year-old viewer quoted by The Australian rated the film 3.64 out of five, indicating that while the film resonates with its target demographic, it may not fully engage older audiences.

Critical Consensus

Aggregated reviews reflect the film's mixed reception. On Rotten Tomatoes, "Moana 2" holds a 61% approval rating based on 223 reviews, indicating a lukewarm response from critics.

Conclusion

"Moana 2" stands as a visually captivating sequel that revisits the enchanting world of its predecessor. While it excels in animation quality and offers moments of charm, it struggles to deliver a narrative and musical experience that matches the original's impact. For fans of the first film, "Moana 2" provides an opportunity to reunite with cherished characters, though it may be best enjoyed with tempered expectations.