Common Sense Media Review
By Sandie Angulo Chen
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Teamwork, courage overcome danger in engaging sequel.
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Moana 2
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 45 parent reviews
Based on 52 kid reviews
Kids say that the sequel falls short of the original in terms of character depth and memorable music, with many reviews highlighting a rushed plot and lackluster songs that fail to capture the same magic. While some find it visually stunning and entertaining for children, the overwhelming sentiment is that it feels like an unnecessary cash grab, lacking the heart and emotional weight of its predecessor.
- plot issues
- music disappointing
- character flatness
- visually appealing
- family friendly
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
MOANA 2, set three years after the events of Moana, follows Moana (voiced by Auli'i Cravalho) as she's called on by her father, Chief Tui (Temuera Morrison), to officially accept her role as the tribe's first connector/wayfinder in a millennium. During the ceremony, Moana experiences a frightening vision linked to her island's isolation. Heeding a call from her ancestors, she sets out to find a legendary lost island that once connected Oceania's waterways and holds the key to uniting her people with others from across the seas. Moana assembles a crew for the journey, including strong, Maui-obsessed historian Moni (Hualālai Chung); skilled canoe builder/mechanic Loto (Rose Matafeo); and grumpy elder farmer Kele (David Fane). Together, they navigate challenges across the ocean and reunite with Maui (Dwayne Johnson) as they face obstacles—and new villains—on their quest.
Is It Any Good?
This is a charming, entertaining musical designed for younger audiences, and they'll definitely enjoy the familiar, adventure-filled sequel. The plot is straightforward enough for even early elementary school-age viewers to follow, and the "baddies" are either misunderstood or largely absent for most of the film. One of the film's highlights is Moana's heartwarming bond with her new little sister, Simea (Khaleesi Lambert-Tsuda). Fans of rooster Hei Hei (Alan Tudyk) and pig Pua—whom Maui dubs "Bacon and Eggs"—will be pleased to see them return as Moana's quirky companions. Rachel House's Gramma Tala also returns in spirit form to guide Moana in key moments. And the addition of Moana's small but faithful, intergenerational human crew adds charm to the story, though they do take a backseat once Maui reenters the spotlight.
While the soundtrack may not rival Lin-Manuel Miranda's iconic songs from the original, it still delivers memorable tracks from composers Mark Mancina, Opetaia Foa'i, Abigail Barlow, and Emily Bear. Standouts include Moana's soaring anthem "Beyond," Maui's humorous "Can I Get a Chee Hoo," and cheeky bat demigoddess Motangi's (Awhimai Fraser) playful number, "Get Lost." Though sequels rarely surpass their predecessors—and Miranda's absence is noticeable—Moana 2 is an amusing, uplifting continuation of the main character's journey.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the scary parts of Moana 2. How much scary stuff can young kids handle?
What did you think of the sequel's storyline? Do you think Moana's story feels complete, or are you interested in more movies about her and her world?
What makes Moana a compelling character? How does she demonstrate perseverance, teamwork, and courage? Why are these important character strengths? Do you consider her a role model, and, if so, why? Can you think of other films with strong female leads?
Moana's story is inspired by myths, legends, and traditions from Polynesian cultures. Does the movie respectfully portray these traditions? What insights did you gain about life in that place or during that time?
Movie Details
- In theaters : November 27, 2024
- On DVD or streaming : January 28, 2025
- Cast : Auliʻi Cravalho , Dwayne Johnson , Hualalai Chung , Awhimai Fraser , Alan Tudyk
- Director : David G. Derrick Jr.
- Inclusion Information : Polynesian/Pacific Islander Movie Director(s) , Black Movie Actor(s) , Polynesian/Pacific Islander Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Topics : Adventures , Animals ( Ocean Creatures ) , Arts ( Music and Sing-Along ) , Fantasy ( Magic ) , Friendship
- Character Strengths : Courage , Perseverance , Teamwork
- Run time : 100 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : action/peril
- Awards : Common Sense Selection , Golden Globe - Golden Globe Award Nominee , Kids' Choice Award , NAACP Image Award - NAACP Image Award Nominee
- Last updated : February 9, 2026
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