Moana 2 opens pretty strong carrying the same warmth that closes the first Moana film, with Auliʻi Cravalho returning as a more mature and focused titular character.
This time, we are introduced to the cute, little sister of Moana, Simea, played to perfection by Khaleesi Lambert-Tsuda.
The equation between Simea and Moana sets the latter up for yet another voyage, as she sets off with a rag-tag crew of misfits to find the fabled island of Motufetu, which is said to connect all the people of the sea.
In a convenient turn of fate, Demigod Maui is also seeking Motufetu and in true “Dwayne Johnson fashion”, he gets into trouble only to reunite with Moana‘s crew. However, will he get to meet Moana this time? Or will she get caught up in a web of trouble concocted by “godly” villains?
When a regular animation-moviegoer like me asks such questions in the middle of the movie, it tells you how fast-paced and nuanced the story is.
The animation has significantly improved since the first film, and the music is top-notch. However, if I were to compare, music-wise, Moana 1 gets the cake. Yet, this time, it makes up with overall experience and some memorable characters.
Awhimai Fraser’s powerful and sassy portrayal of Matangi makes for a refreshing antagonist in a set of powerful baddies. The way she drives the second half of the film truly speaks to how good her character was written.
Johnson doesn’t take too much space too, unlike his live-action roles, where it looks like he is just playing himself. For I think, we all need only a sprinkle of “rock”, not a “rockslide”… I hope he continues to do so in the live-action Moana.
The live-action version is expected to hit screens in 2026, with Catherine Lagaʻaia playing Moana and Dwayne Johnson reprising the role of Maui. Auliʻi Cravalho, who plays the lead in the animated films, is an executive producer.
Coming back to the film at hand, I went to the movies with my usual cynicism reserved for sequels of fan-favourite movies. However, Moana 2 did not disappoint.
Soulful performances, a great script, and an overall rounded story helps create a truly deserving second part. And yes, let’s not forget it was indeed a film aimed at children.
The kids in the theatre had fun. They were so engrossed in it—the story, the quips, the amazing animation in 3D—all of it. No groans, squeals, or even a distracting grunt. That’s a feat in this day and age, for any film!
Moana 2 was not just impressive to watch in the theatre, but it was a truly great cinematic experience. It was truly free—free in itself, and free from the shackles bound to the second part of a great first film. For that alone, it deserves praise. I give it a 4 out of 5 stars, and a must-watch tag. Go with your friends, family, and loved ones.
P.S. Don’t miss the mid-credit scene after the movie!
Title: Moana 2 (English, Animation)
Directors: David G. Derrick Jr, .Jason Hand, Dana Ledoux Miller
Cast: Auliʻi Cravalho, Dwayne Johnson, Temuera Morrison, Nicole Scherzinger, Rachel House, Alan Tudyk
Rating: 4 out of 5 | ★★★★☆
