Disney‘s sequel Moana 2 makes a buzz at the box office, breaking preview records pre-Thanksgiving with an estimated $12 million opening day. Financial success is quite certain, but the critical reception has been mixed with various questions regarding the creative direction from fans and reviewers alike.
The sequel brings together old friends Moana and Maui on a new journey as they try to restore connections between scattered island communities, which have been punished by an ancient deity. Simba, a young sister of Moana, and a diverse mix of islanders join them during their journey, each holding a different talent. Critics still argue that the film has relied too much on the formula of the original with few innovations.
Directed by David Derrick Jr., Jason Hand, and Dana Ledoux Miller, Moana 2 maintains the incredible underwater animation and adrenaline-fueled action scenes that characterized the first film. However, without the original directing and songwriting teams, it shows a difference. The film’s music, by returning creatives Opetaia Foa’i and Mark Mancina, doesn’t come close to hits like How Far I’ll Go. New tracks seem unable to match the depth of emotion and the infectious energy of the first film’s iconic soundtrack.
New characters, including a troublesome lightning god and Moana’s quirky crew, do not leave any lasting impression. It’s almost as if the screenplay, riddled with callbacks, is a nostalgic tribute rather than a bold continuation of the story.
Even though the film is riddled with such flaws, Moana 2 has presented visually beautiful moments and tenderness in its scenes to keep this one engaging for family viewers. As it stands at the box office projections of $125–135 million over Thanksgiving weekend, Disney proves, yet again, that a not-so-innovative sequel can shine brightly on holidays.
To Read More: Entertainment