Moana 2, the much-anticipated sequel to Disney’s 2016 hit, is just hours away from its U.S. theatrical release. Directed by David Derrick Jr., Jason Hand, and Dana Ledoux Miller, the film builds on its predecessor’s legacy while venturing into uncharted waters. Early reactions from critics and cinephiles highlight stunning visuals, heartfelt storytelling, and memorable character dynamics.
Highlights from Early Reactions
- Kevin Verma – Hollywood Handle
- “#Moana2 is way better than I thought it would be. This one really ups the stakes and her new crew is delightful together. Maui is the standout (again). Also, the setup for what’s to come is exciting. Arguably better than the first one.”<
#Moana2 is way better than I thought it would be. This one really ups the stakes and her new crew is delightful together. Maui is the standout (again). Also the set up for what’s to come is exciting. Arguably better than the first one.@DisneyStudiosCA pic.twitter.com/xL0C2YnCxF
— Kevin Verma (@Kevin_126) November 25, 2024
- “#Moana2 is way better than I thought it would be. This one really ups the stakes and her new crew is delightful together. Maui is the standout (again). Also, the setup for what’s to come is exciting. Arguably better than the first one.”<
- Wendy Lee Szany
- “#Moana2 is a heartfelt and fun sequel. Epic new adventures with her new crew were great to see, though I would have liked to have gotten to know the new characters a bit more. The movie is at its strongest when Moana and Maui are on screen together. The animation was gorgeous.”
#Moana2 is a heartfelt and fun sequel. Epic new adventures with her new crew was great to see, though I would have liked to have gotten to know the new characters a bit more.
The movie is at its strongest when Moana and Maui are on screen together. The animation was gorgeous. pic.twitter.com/oeAgAphGY2— Wendy Lee Szany (@WendyLeeSzany) November 26, 2024
- “#Moana2 is a heartfelt and fun sequel. Epic new adventures with her new crew were great to see, though I would have liked to have gotten to know the new characters a bit more. The movie is at its strongest when Moana and Maui are on screen together. The animation was gorgeous.”
- Jamie Jirak
- “#Moana2 was incredibly sweet! I came for the songs, and they did not disappoint. I also really enjoyed the new characters and was happy to see more coconut people. A worthy sequel!”<
#Moana2 was incredibly sweet! I came for the songs and they did not disappoint. I also really enjoyed the new characters, and was happy to see more coconut people. A worthy sequel! pic.twitter.com/BlIklQMvNG
— Jamie Jirak (@JamieCinematics) November 25, 2024
- “#Moana2 was incredibly sweet! I came for the songs, and they did not disappoint. I also really enjoyed the new characters and was happy to see more coconut people. A worthy sequel!”<
- Leo Rydel
- “What a fun ride! A lovely expansion of the exploration in Moana with visuals and the bond between Moana and Maui on par with the first! While the pacing flows like a TV show, it accomplished a lot! The songs were lacking… but Go Beyond was a banger!”<
#Moana2!!
What a fun ride! A lovely expansion of the exploration in MOANA with visuals and the bond between Moana and Maui on par with the first! While the pacing flows like a TV show it accomplished a lot!
The songs were lacking… but Go Beyond was a banger! pic.twitter.com/TwCxLMtN1m
— Leo Rydel (@GeeklyGoods) November 26, 2024
- “What a fun ride! A lovely expansion of the exploration in Moana with visuals and the bond between Moana and Maui on par with the first! While the pacing flows like a TV show, it accomplished a lot! The songs were lacking… but Go Beyond was a banger!”<
- Nicholas Spake
- “#Moana2 has an episodic flow, which isn’t surprising since it was supposed to be a Disney+ series. Like some TV shows, it takes a while to get going but eventually finds its footing, especially whenever Moana and Maui are together.”<
#Moana2 has an episodic flow, which isn’t surprising since it was supposed to be a Disney+ series. Like some TV shows, it takes awhile to get going, but eventually finds its footing, especially whenever Moana and Maui are together. pic.twitter.com/R0UgbDmY6E
— Nicholas Spake (@NSpake) November 26, 2024
- “#Moana2 has an episodic flow, which isn’t surprising since it was supposed to be a Disney+ series. Like some TV shows, it takes a while to get going but eventually finds its footing, especially whenever Moana and Maui are together.”<
- Ren Geekness
- “#Moana2 joins the ranks of most breathtakingly beautiful films I’ve ever seen. With a grander scope than the original, it voyages beyond, expanding on the themes and mythos with more great songs, more Maui hilarity, and more Moana epicness in a timeless voyage to fill your heart.”
#Moana2 joins the ranks of most breath-takingly beautiful films I’ve ever seen.
With a grander scope than the original it voyages beyond expanding on the themes & mythos with more great songs, more Maui hilarity & more Moana epicness in a timeless voyage to fill your heart. pic.twitter.com/5OVTKgWldM— Ren Geekness (@RenGeekness) November 25, 2024
Key Takeaways
- Stunning Animation: Critics unanimously praise the sequel’s visual grandeur, with many calling it one of the most breathtaking animated films to date.
- Character Dynamics: The bond between Moana and Maui continues to shine, providing emotional depth and humor.
- Mixed Reception for Songs: While some songs are considered less impactful than those in the original, tracks like Go Beyond are standouts.
- Engaging New Elements: The introduction of new characters and expanded mythology adds to the film’s scope, though some wished for more development of the supporting cast.
- Pacing and Structure: A few critics noted an episodic pacing, attributed to the film’s origins as a potential Disney+ series.
What to Expect
Set three years after the events of the first film, Moana 2 follows the titular character as she answers a call from her wayfinding ancestors. With Maui by her side, Moana embarks on a journey to lift a curse on the hidden island of Motufetu, encountering familiar and new foes, including the Kakamora and underworld goddess Matangi.
As Moana 2 hits theaters on November 27, it promises to be a heartwarming family feature and a visual feast, perfectly timed for the Thanksgiving holiday season.