Moana 2 sees Disney revisiting the world of Oceania, continuing the story of its well-loved heroine. Directed by David G. Derrick Jr., Jason Hand, and Dana Ledoux Miller, the sequel follows Moana on a journey into long-lost waters after receiving an unexpected call from her wayfinding ancestors. The film brings back familiar voices, including Auli’i Cravalho as Moana and Dwayne Johnson as Maui, but does not always replicate the magic of the original.

The premise of Moana embarking on a voyage guided by her ancestors has the potential for compelling character development and adventure. However, the narrative does not feel as tightly constructed as its predecessor. The pacing varies, with some sections moving slowly while others feel rushed, particularly in the latter half. The stakes do not reach the emotional depth of the first film, which may make the journey feel less impactful.

Moana remains a determined and engaging protagonist, with Auli’i Cravalho continuing to bring warmth and sincerity to the role. However, the film offers her limited personal growth, focusing instead on the scale of the adventure. Dwayne Johnson’s return as Maui is welcome, though his character’s role in the story feels less significant this time around.

New characters, voiced by Hualalai Chung, Rose Matafeo, and others, introduce fresh dynamics, though few make a lasting impression. The comedic moments, featuring the vocal talents of Alan Tudyk and Jemaine Clement, are present but do not always land as effectively as in the original.

Mark Mancina’s score maintains the essence of the first film, blending traditional Polynesian influences with orchestral compositions. While the new songs fit the tone of the story, they do not quite reach the heights of How Far I’ll Go or You’re Welcome. Though there are a few standout tracks, none feel destined to become Disney classics.

Moana 2 is visually striking, with Disney continuing to refine its animation technology. The depiction of water, landscapes, and character designs is breathtaking, and the film’s colour palette is particularly rich. While the visuals are impressive, they are not enough on their own to elevate the overall experience.

Moana 2 is a visually stunning sequel that offers some enjoyable moments but does not quite reach the brilliance of the original. While fans may appreciate the continuation of Moana’s journey, the film lacks the emotional depth, strong narrative structure, and instantly memorable music that made Moana (2016) so beloved.