The recently released “Moana 2” (2024) continues Disney’s exploration of Polynesian culture and wayfinding with breathtaking animation, but it has received mixed reviews for its narrative choices and musical elements.
Highlights:
- Visuals: The animation is universally praised as stunning, with lifelike water, vibrant character designs, and intricate details bringing Oceania to life. It’s a visual spectacle that matches or surpasses its predecessor.
- Characters: Moana (voiced by Auli’i Cravalho) and Maui (voiced by Dwayne Johnson) return, but the pair spends much of the movie apart, which has disappointed fans who loved their dynamic in the first film. New characters like Loto (Rose Matafeo) and Moni (Hualālai Chung) add charm, though their roles are limited.
- Story: The plot focuses on Moana reconnecting with Maui and uniting islands, but some critics find the story lacking in adventure and depth compared to the original. It leans heavily on setup for potential sequels, which may feel unsatisfying as a standalone experience.
- Music: While the songs include cultural elements and some memorable tunes like “Can I Get a Chee Hoo?”, the absence of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s influence is noticeable. The soundtrack lacks the iconic, standout hits of the first film.
- Themes: The film emphasizes teamwork and cultural respect, resonating with meaningful messages for audiences of all ages.
Moana 2 had a production budget of approximately $150 million (₹1264 crores) and has performed exceptionally well at the global box office. It opened with a record-breaking five-day Thanksgiving haul of $221 million domestically, marking the highest Thanksgiving release in history.
In India, the film garnered ₹12.79 crores during its opening weekend. Worldwide, it has already surpassed $500 million, making it a strong commercial success.
Its strong performance reflects widespread anticipation and Disney’s robust marketing efforts.
Moana 2 Worldwide Box Office Collection
- USA: $221 million
- Overseas: $165 million
- Total Worldwide: $386 million
India Box Office Collection (Net Figures):
- Day 1: ₹2.25 crore
- Day 2: ₹3.75 crore
- Day 3: ₹4.75 crore
- Total India: ₹10.75 crore
Budget
- Total Budget: $150 million (~₹1264 crore).
The film is performing strongly worldwide, especially in the USA.
