Moana 2 (2024): A New Voyage Awaits in the Heart of Oceania

Set sail once more with Disney’s beloved wayfinder in Moana 2, the thrilling sequel to the 2016 animated masterpiece. This time, Moana’s journey takes her beyond the familiar horizons of Motunui into treacherous, uncharted waters, where ancient legends and new challenges await. With stunning animation and a heartfelt story, this film promises an adventure as vast and deep as the ocean itself.

Plot: A Call from the Ancestors

Three years after her initial adventure, Moana (voiced by Auliʻi Cravalho) has become a respected leader on Motunui. However, a vision from her ancestors reveals a dire threat: the malicious storm god Nalo has sunk the legendary island of Motufetu, severing the connections between Oceania’s peoples. Guided by a celestial comet, Moana assembles a crew—including the witty craftswoman Loto, the historian Moni, and the grumpy farmer Kele—to find Motufetu and restore balance to the ocean. Along the way, she reunites with the demigod Maui (Dwayne Johnson), who is battling his own demons tied to Nalo’s curse. Together, they face monstrous clams, vengeful coconut pirates, and the wrath of a god, all while learning that true strength lies in unity and courage.

Actors and Creators: Familiar Voices and New Vision

Reprising their iconic roles, Auliʻi Cravalho and Dwayne Johnson bring depth and charm to Moana and Maui, alongside new actors like Rose Matafeo (Loto) and David Fane (Kele). Directed by David Derrick Jr., Jason Hand, and Dana Ledoux Miller, the film was initially conceived as a Disney+ series but evolved into a theatrical feature due to its epic scope. Notably, the composers of the original film, Mark Mancina and Opetaia Foaʻi, returned to score the sequel, with additional songs by Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear.

Why You Should Watch

Moana 2 delivers breathtaking animation, vibrant musical numbers, and a powerful message about leadership and cultural pride. While the songs may not quite reach the iconic status of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s original tunes, tracks like "Beyond" and "Can I Get a Chee Hoo?" add energy and emotion to the journey. The film’s emphasis on Polynesian mythology and voyaging traditions offers a rich, educational experience for families, while its themes of perseverance and teamwork resonate universally. The official trailer hints at jaw-dropping visual set pieces, from oceanic storms to mystical realms, making this a must-see on the big screen—or soon to watch online from home.