Moana 2 review: a fun-filled ocean adventure that can't quite match the original

Disney fans, get ready to set sail once again! Moana 2 brings us back into the stunning world of Polynesian mythology with breathtaking animation, exciting new adventures, and of course, the return of our favorite wayfinder, Moana, and the ever-charismatic Maui. But does it capture the same magic as the original? Well… let’s dive in!

A new journey, a new challenge

This time around, Moana embarks on a quest to find the lost island of Motofetu—a once-thriving meeting place for seafarers that has been cursed and lost to time. To succeed, she must reunite with Maui and gather a quirky crew of sidekicks, leading to a thrilling (and sometimes chaotic) oceanic adventure.

The concept is solid, and the pacing is fast—sometimes too fast. The film feels like a high-speed Disneyland ride, packed with action, humor, and surprises. But unlike the first movie, where every moment felt meaningful, some parts of Moana 2 feel like they’re just checking off boxes on the “Disney sequel” list.

A musical comeback (sort of…)

One of the biggest highlights of Moana was its unforgettable soundtrack, with How Far I’ll Go and You’re Welcome becoming instant classics. Moana 2 introduces a fresh batch of songs, but while they capture the island-inspired vibe, they don’t quite stick in your head the same way. The magic of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s songwriting is definitely missed.

Visually stunning, but missing some heart

Disney’s animation remains top-tier—there’s no denying that. The ocean sparkles, the characters move beautifully, and the mystical elements are gorgeously realized. But there’s something a little too polished about it all. Some characters look smoother, almost plastic-like, and the emotion that made Moana feel so real doesn’t always hit as hard here.

Final verdict: A fun, but not legendary, sequel

Let’s be clear—Moana 2 is still a blast! It’s funny, visually spectacular, and full of adventure, making it a great time for families and Disney lovers alike. But compared to the original, it feels a bit rushed, a little too safe, and missing that extra bit of soul that made Moana a modern Disney classic. Would I watch it again? Sure. Would I sing the new songs in the shower like I did with How Far I’ll Go? Probably not. But hey, if this is just setting up a Moana 3, I’m still on board for the ride.

⭐ Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars ⭐