Jay Rohr
Moana 2 drifts a bit awkwardly. Though the movie never runs aground, it comes dangerously close on occasion. Whatever solid ideas may’ve inspired this sequel; it reminds more of Disney’s old straight-to-VHS releases than anything meant for theaters. Still, that doesn’t mean it can’t amuse for a little while.
The story sets sail three years after the first film. Auliʻi Cravalho returns to voice Moana as she sets out to find the other people who populate Oceania. Long ago, the old god Nalo cursed the sea and sank the secret island Motufetu which connected the native islanders. Now, Moana with her merry band of friends, including the demigod Maui, voiced once again by Dwayne Johnson (Red One), take up the dangerous quest to end the curse and reconnect the people.
Narratively, Moana 2 feels like the bullet points for a plot outline. Little flows together organically. Meanwhile, unpolished events play out with all the exciting depth of episode descriptions for a tv series. There also seems to be a confused order to occurrences.
Stakes for the story keep arriving after characters are already on their story arcs. Perhaps that’s meant to emphasize the necessity of their actions, but it begs a never answered question as to why anyone was actively pursuing their goals in the first place. Since motivations come after actions are already taken Moana 2 is curiously confusing. It’s as if a plot point came before its explanation, then the scriptwriters never refined the screenplay to compose organic cause and effect.
Similarly, Moana sets out on her voyage with a crew of locals. Yet, as events unfold their necessity is never really established, especially as Moana always seems quite capable of doing everything without them. Though they bond over a song, there is no real character growth or interaction. It’s just extra bodies for Moana to occasionally interact with. Essentially, they’re there for comic relief as opposed to a narrative driving presence.
All this isn’t to say there aren’t any interesting themes. Moana 2 makes a case for the notion that not all who wander are lost as well as attempting to emphasize the importance of community over the individual. Often tales of heroism, especially Disney’s, are about singular saviors saving established groups. Moana 2 endeavors to tell a story about growing a connected community while relying on others to collectively accomplish a goal. Although it doesn’t always adequately embrace those notions, it is nice to see a movie try.
And trying is what this movie does more than it succeeds. Moana 2 tries to have rousing tunes as popular as the first picture. That’s why filmmakers brought back award-winning musicians such as Opetaia Foa‘i and Mark Mancina to compose five all-new original songs. There’s no doubt the instrumentation on several is instantly toe tapping. It’s the lyrics which fail to have any zest.
Too many tunes are simply declarative statements describing actions taken or about to be taken. “Beyond” is basically an energetic number about a to-do list with subsequent verses checking boxes off said list. And the less anyone talks about the rap adjacent portion of “What Could be Better Than This?” would do the world a favor.
Fortunately, the vocals are usually amazing. Auliʻi Cravalho is a bright spot, dazzling in multiple numbers. Her vibrant remarkable voice heightens even the dullest lyrics. Dwayne Johnson’s big musical number “Can I Get a Chee Hoo?” could be put beside the definition of someone phoning it in, and that’s being generous about this flat, lifeless recitation that’s more talking than singing. However, Awhimai Fraser (Ahikaroa) as the mysterious Matangi with her brigade of flying fox backup dancers, summons all the right vibes during her delightful tune “Get Lost”.
In addition, Moana 2 features an incredible authenticity. The filmmakers consulted with numerous experts, put at their disposal courtesy of the Oceanic Cultural Trust. Every bit of production design follows a course laid out by authorities. Folks like Samoan linguist Dr. Grant Muāgutuʻa, choreographer Tiana Nonosina Liufau, and master tattooist Su’a Peter Suluʻape ensure proper representation while rooting Moana 2 in the authentic elements of Pacific Islander cultures.
Excellent animation combines with those aspects to really bring the movie to life. Being computer generated doesn’t mean Moana 2 can’t ever feel real in its own way. Authenticity adds to that notion, while stellar character design gives the audience a living fairytale. Sometimes that enhances comical moments. Other occasions offer scary sea beasts or cute comical companions. Overall, Moana 2 contains a visual charm inviting viewers into a story where the fantastical feels possible.
Davd G. Derrick Jr., Jason Hand, and Dana Ledoux Miller all seem to be at the helm, each directing their first full-length feature. Whether a matter of too many cooks in the kitchen or simply inexperience, they seldom provide anything compelling. Visually speaking, Moana 2 is very basic with next to no flair. There are certain instances which feel like lost opportunities for more cinematic stylization. However, that isn’t to suggest the film is dull. It simply lacks bravura.
Moana 2 just isn’t as good as the first film. Toe tapping tunes often fail to have any lyrical zest. The sections meant to thrill aren’t very visually exciting. The best jokes get a chuckle at most. However, there are worse ways to while away the hours.
Excellent animation alongside a solid voice cast bolsters this flawed film. Auliʻi Cravalho is amazing at making her character come to life in performance and song. She really deserved a better film to showcase her talent. Still, despite cracks in the boat, Moana 2 never sinks. There is an attempt at worthwhile themes which keeps this from every feeling like a cash grab. But Moana 2 clearly needed a bit more refining before being put out to sea. Although kids may delight to a degree, this sequel is beneath its predecessor. I’d recommend waiting for it on streaming, but given Disney+ prices, seeing it in theaters might be cheaper.
