MOANA 2 Social Media Reactions Promise A (Mostly) Decent Sequel…Even If The Songs Are Not As Good

On November 22, 2024By Littum

Yesterday, Auli’i Cravalho and Dwayne Johnson joined stars, filmmakers and special guests at the Lanikūhonua Cultural Institute in Kapolei, Hawaii for Moana 2world premiere.

The event kicked off with a special performance led by Tiana Nonosina Liufau, Kayla Faʻamaligi and Polynesian creatives honoring the Pacific peoples, cultures and traditions that gave voice to the heart of Moana history. A few critics were also present, which means we now have some early reactions.

Of course the fact that anyway some of the reporters below were flown out to Hawaii by Disney for this splash event means that, as with most social reactions, you should probably take them with a grain of salt.

It’s also worth pointing out that Disney seems less confident about the sequel because the review embargo is only lifted the day before Moana 2 coming to cinemas. It’s extremely late for one of the studio’s high-profile films.

Still, if you take what’s here at face value, it sounds like Moana is a solid follow-up to its 2016 predecessor. The songs may not be that great, but considering the fact that this movie started life as a TV show before Disney CEO Bob Iger decided it should be released in theaters, it’s early to say that this good is impressive . Fingers crossed that the film delivers over the Thanksgiving weekend.

Check out the first wave Moana 2 reactions below (via Toonado.com).

Moana 2 is a worthy sequel! Cozy, good music and tons of . Another emotional and empowering journey at sea. Animation is AMAZING! New characters are great, but at their best when Moana and Maui are together. Their banter is everything! The mid-credits scene! #Moana2 pic.twitter.com/fNXKOPkobp

— Tessa Smith – Mama’s Geeky (@MamasGeeky) 22 November 2024

I absolutely loved #Moana2! The animation is breathtaking and Moana’s ensemble cast is fantastic. Her little sister totally stole the show for me.

The story is strong and well done. It’s a nice sequel. I also enjoyed loved the music! pic.twitter.com/p1cIcel7xs

— Joseph Deckelmeier (@joedeckelmeier) 22 November 2024

Although the songs aren’t quite as catchy this time around, Moana and Maui are still an infectious pair that deliver hilarious gags and heartfelt moments. Brilliant animation, a deeper dive into Polynesian history, #Moana2 proves that it is worth sailing beyond the reef again. pic.twitter.com/7UoBiByOv2

— Chris Killian (@chrikillian) 22 November 2024

#Moana2 features the return of Moana & Maui, and they’re just as awesome as you remember. The sequel reaches higher levels with excellent visuals and new characters that worked so well in a story with massive heart.

The songs may not be as remarkable as its predecessor, but there… pic.twitter.com/HaTWz17Ez8

— The Hollywood Handle (@HollywoodHandle) 22 November 2024

Today’s Special Show!
An amazing display of animated scenery, I was in awe of the visuals the entire time! The songs are catchy and there is a beautiful heart at the center of the story. I enjoyed it!#Moana2 is in theaters November 28! Stay tuned for my full review pic.twitter.com/di4jrK2DT5

— lany (@lanyfilm) 22 November 2024

Walt Disney Animation Studios’ epic animated musical Moana 2 reunites Moana (voice of Auli’i Cravalho) and Maui (voice of Dwayne Johnson) three years later for an expansive new journey alongside a crew of unlikely sailors. After receiving an unexpected call from her wayfinding ancestors, Moana must journey to the distant seas of Oceania and into dangerous, long-lost waters for an adventure unlike anything she’s ever experienced.

The voice cast also includes Rachel House, Temuera Morrison, Nicole Scherzinger, Hualālai Chung, David Fane, Rose Matafeo, Awhimai Fraser, Gerald Ramsey and Khaleesi Lambert-Tsuda, who voices Moana’s adoring and adorable little sister, Simea.

Directed by David Derrick Jr., Jason Hand and Dana Ledoux Miller, and produced by Christina Chen and Yvett Merino, Moana 2 features music by Grammy winners Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear, Grammy nominee Opetaia Foa’i and three-time Grammy winner Mark Mancina. Jared Bush and Miller are writing the film, which is produced by Jennifer Lee, Bush and Johnson.

Moana 2 opens in theaters on November 27, 2024.