The long awaited sequel to 2016’s smash hit Moana hit theatres this weekend. When Moana (Auli’i Cravalho) receives a call from her wayfinding ancestors, she must embark on a quest unlike any other. Together with Maui (Dwayne Johnson) and her crew, they must rescue a forgotten island to save their people and to find others who are just like them.

One of my favorite aspects of this franchise is its beautiful animation. From the island vibes to the impossible blues of the ocean, it is indeed a feast for the eyes. This time around the audience were introduced to some new places like the inside of a clam and the harsher waters of the ocean which made for a different yet still satisfying color pallet.

Another thing that I love is the score. The haunting chants are almost spiritual and they fit perfectly with the tone of the film. Unfortunately the soundtrack itself is not as epic as it was in the first film. Lin Manuel Miranda’s absence is felt and while I enjoyed most of the songs in the moment, none of them really stuck out and I couldn’t even tell you their names.

Cravalho and Johnson are a great team once again as Moana and Maui. They have an effortless friendship with one another; it was just a pity they were only reunited in the third act! I enjoyed the addition of some of the other characters like Moana’s sister Simea (Khaleesi Lambert – Tsuda) and the crew that Moana recruits for her voyage Moni (Hualalai Chung), Loto (Rose Matafeo) and Kele (David Fene). And who could forget the likes of Pua and Hei Hei, Moana’s pet pig and chicken? They provided a lot of laughs! I would have loved to learn more about Matangi (Awhimai Fraser) however, but maybe we’ll get her story in the inevitable third part.

Though Moana 2 wasn’t as great as the original, there is still a lot to like about it. Moana’s journey upped the stakes and I was intrigued the whole way through. With many laughs and heartfelt moments between family and friends, this is a great time for the whole everyone to enjoy.

Rating: ♥️♥️♥️.5