Disney’s “Moana 2,” released on November 27th, brings back beloved characters and introduces new faces like Moana’s younger sister Simea and the demi-god Matangi. While the storyline continues Moana’s journey, a significant highlight of this sequel is its diverse and captivating soundtrack, notably different from the original film.
The narrative of “Moana 2” presents a compelling message about life’s multifaceted paths, a divergence from the first “Moana,” where the core message felt less defined. Regardless of thematic shifts, the sequel stands on its own, offering a fresh perspective without heavily relying on prior events. However, the film truly shines in its musical composition, featuring a range of songs that serve different narrative and emotional purposes. One standout track is performed by Awhimai Fraser, the voice actor for Matangi. Her song incorporates a rhythm reminiscent of gospel music, a surprising yet pleasant stylistic choice that adds depth to the film’s sonic landscape. The inclusion of gospel elements feels organic and enriches the musical tapestry of “Moana 2”.
Alt text: Moana and Maui strategize their escape from Motufetū Island, a scene highlighting their enduring partnership in “Moana 2”.
A noticeable evolution in “Moana 2” is its broader musical palette compared to its predecessor. While Lin-Manuel Miranda was central to the songwriting of the first movie, his absence in the sequel seemingly paved the way for a shift in musical direction. The original “Moana” primarily utilized drums, guitars, and natural instruments, aiming to reflect the traditional music of Pacific Islander cultures. In contrast, “Moana 2” integrates horns and modern instruments, creating a distinct sound that marks a departure from the first film’s sonic identity. This change, while a stylistic divergence, offers a fresh auditory experience. While some viewers might expect music solely from Pacific Islander musicians in a movie celebrating their culture, the blend of styles in “Moana 2” presents an interesting and arguably enjoyable musical evolution.
Beyond the music, “Moana 2” incorporates humor aimed at a younger demographic, ensuring entertainment for its target audience. Although subtle jokes for older viewers are less frequent, the film maintains an engaging and lighthearted tone throughout.
In conclusion, “Moana 2” successfully expands the “Moana” universe, particularly through its diverse and stylistically evolved soundtrack. The movie offers a satisfying continuation of Moana’s story, and while the ending suggests a potential closure to her immediate narrative arc, the musical journey of “Moana 2” is a compelling reason to experience this Disney sequel. Overall, “Moana 2” delivers a solid entertainment experience, with its music being a key element of its appeal.
