Spectacular images balance out a propulsive plot

Back in 2016, when Moana When it hit theaters, it sparked a wave of positivity – not because of a redefinition of the narrative. At its core, the film conveyed the age-old message of good triumphing over evil, with the protagonists banding together to save the world. However, the film was considered enchanting primarily for two reasons: the Polynesian depiction, which opened audiences to ancient fables, and the portrayal of Moana as a female protagonist whose goal goes beyond finding a prince. Eight years later, Moana and Maui are back, rocking the nostalgia of the first film and making us envious of their perfect hair. Like its predecessor, this sequel offers a familiar story, but this time it doesn’t venture into new territory of brilliant storytelling. However, the film is still spectacular thanks to its stunning and groundbreaking visuals.

Cast: Auliʻi Cravalho, Dwayne Johnson, Temuera Morrison, Nicole Scherzinger, Rachel House and Alan Tudyk

Directors: David Derrick Jr., Jason Hand and Dana Ledoux Miller

Lately, Disney is trying to go beyond the commercial American narrative by creating stories from different cultures that are deeply rooted. Starting with representing New Zealand in Moana, they were well received by the Mexicans (Coco), Colombians (Encanto) and Chinese (To redden). While this achievement from the century-old production house is commendable, such films can only shine when they delve deeper into their narratives. Moana 2 stays on the shore and repeats a familiar storyline: Moana must defeat a villain to save civilization after receiving a call from her ancestors. Once again she teams up with Maui, which leads to the most obvious conclusion: she saves the day. While no Disney film is expected to deviate from its triumphant ending, this film could have at least presented fresher conflicts and resolutions.

For example, when Moana is unsure of her goal, as in the first film, her grandma’s spirit seems to motivate her to traverse the endless blues. Likewise, Maui’s song appears at the right moment to free Moana from her self-doubt. Even the action sequences are more visually impressive than narratively sensational. Maui is rescued by Moana’s crew in one instance, while Moana is rescued by Maui in another, leading to a predictable exchange of heroics. If you watch it again Moana To test your memory before continuing, you might even find similarities in the narrative in several cases.

Despite these turbulent waters Moana 2 is not entirely lost at sea. Like every Disney production, it impresses with its detailed world building. The sequel introduces Simea, Moana’s younger sister, a lovable character whose design leaves an indelible impression. With her buck teeth and limited speaking abilities, Simea’s charm is a testament to Disney’s mastery of animation. The film takes us into stormy and at the same time fascinating worlds. For example, Awhimai Fraser’s song “Get out“ with an unimportant antagonist, Matangi, builds a bat-woman’s lair in a stunning mix of purple and black tones. With flying bats and Matangi and Moana, the world – even if it doesn’t add any value to the film – takes you on an invisible and effervescent journey. Such unique worlds are created for the Kokamora Pirates, including a giant clam, a part that lies entirely in the Black Sea, contrasting darkly with the bright blue talking sea, and many more examples. Because the story is as fictional and mystical as possible, the imagery transports you to vast expanses of shimmering depths, while the glittering tides make you forget the salty parts of the film.

Moana 2 also features a dynamic and immersive sound design. When the Kokomora pirates, made entirely of coconuts, communicate, their language is formed by the rhythmic tapping of coconuts – a clever acoustic detail. At crucial moments, such as when Moana sets sail with her crew, we hear songs and hymns in Maori that take us beyond the gentle whisper of the waves and deep into the heart of the island’s culture.

Moana’s purpose in this film feels monotonous and limited, making the sequel two steps forward and one step back. But in a community that trusts its monarchical heir to lead it to prosperity, and where there is no doubt that a woman will succeed where male ancestors have failed, the film delivers a victory for representation Women. Because two steps forward and one step back is still a step in the right direction. In a world where traditions have been shaped by men, Moana proves that the next wave belongs to women – and that in itself is a victory worth celebrating.