Advertisement
In 2016, Moana wasn’t just another animated Disney movie—it was a cultural sensation. It joined the ranks of Frozen and Encanto, marking what felt like a golden era for Disney Animation. Even for adults, the buzz around Moana was hard to resist, and the film more than delivered, becoming an instant classic. Fast-forward eight years, and the long-awaited Moana 2 is finally here. With the bar set so high, the question on everyone’s mind is whether the sequel can capture the same magic.
What are critics saying about Moana 2?
Unfortunately, early reviews suggest that Moana 2 might not be riding the same wave of success. First impressions on social media and from critics are lukewarm at best. One user on X (formerly Twitter) described it as “lovely but underwhelming” and “still a serviceable film.” While not outright negative, such comments seem more disheartening than scathing—a solid movie that’s ultimately forgettable.
It’s a letdown for fans who’ve waited nearly a decade. A bad movie might still spark conversation (looking at you, Wish), but being called “fine” feels like the ultimate insult.
Why isn’t Moana 2 making a splash?
Critics have pointed to one glaring issue: Moana 2 wasn’t meant to be a movie. Originally conceived as a Disney+ series, the project was retooled into a feature film mid-production. This pivot led to noticeable compromises—dialogue was reworked, songs were altered, and the final product feels more like an extended episode than a cinematic event.
And speaking of songs, one of Moana’s greatest strengths was its music. Tracks like “How Far I’ll Go” and “You’re Welcome” became iconic. Unfortunately, the sequel’s songs are being described as “lackluster” and “forgettable.” Even with Dwayne Johnson’s larger-than-life charisma, it seems unlikely that the sequel’s soundtrack will inspire the same singalongs as the original.
The lukewarm reception has drawn comparisons to Disney’s early 2000s straight-to-DVD sequels. Titles like Cinderella II: Dreams Come True and The Lion King II: Simba’s Pride often felt like shadows of their predecessors (Simba’s Pride was decent, to be fair). While Moana 2 isn’t quite at that level, it seems to evoke the same energy—safe, inconsequential, and lacking the spark that made the original unforgettable.
Not all hope is lost. While critics are underwhelmed, some fans are still enjoying the sequel for what it is—a nostalgic revisit to beloved characters. If you’re curious, it might be worth giving it a shot and forming your own opinion. Just don’t expect the groundbreaking magic of the original.
If you’re looking for guaranteed cinematic wonder, though, there’s another option: Wicked. With its dazzling performances and beloved musical numbers, it’s proving to be the enchanting experience many Moana 2 hopefuls were expecting.
