Reviews

A sequel to Disney’s 2016 hit animation Moana was originally designed as a TV series before they decided to rework it into a feature film.

In the sequel, set three years after the events of the first film, Moana (voiced by Auli’i Cravalho) is now a wayfinder, who ventures into the ocean in her wooden canoe to discover new islands and civilisations.

After she receives an unexpected call from her wayfinding ancestors, Moana puts together a crew, including demigod Maui (Dwayne Johnson), and sets sail for the sunken island of Motufetu to break its curse.

You wouldn’t know that this was originally designed as a TV series. The story feels ready-made for a feature and one that deserves a theatrical release.

However, the plot feels a bit too similar to the original – Moana is saving an island again – and there are too many one-note side characters.

Also, the songs aren’t a patch on the catchy You’re Welcome or gorgeous How Far I’ll Go from the original. There are some nice tunes, such as Moana’s belter Beyond, but none of them are memorable and Lin-Manuel Miranda’s absence is felt.

They aren’t bad songs but the bar was set really high with its predecessor and these ones – while enjoyable enough – go in one ear and out the other again.

Despite these criticisms, children will probably still love this sequel because it is a fun adventure with amusing slapstick moments and very cool animated setpieces. Plus, who can resist the hilarious pig and chicken sidekicks and the Kakamora coconut pirates?

Also, it is a joy to be reunited with Moana and Maui again. In particular, Moana is a fantastic role model for young girls as she is strong, capable, resourceful and fearless. She also has a beautiful singing voice thanks to Cravalho.

Moana 2 doesn’t reach the heights of the original – or even come close – but it’s still a visually stunning and entertaining adventure for all the family.

In cinemas from Friday 29th November.

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