Moana 2

Moana 2 Review: A Bold Return to the Ocean and the Call of Legacy

Overview

In Moana 2, Disney continues the journey of its brave Polynesian heroine as she answers a new call from her ancestors. Set a few years after the original, the sequel sees Moana embarking on another seafaring adventure, this time to protect her island and rediscover the heart of her people’s heritage. Themes of legacy, identity, and courage take center stage as Moana balances her role as a leader with her desire to explore the unknown.

While visually stunning and rich in cultural depth, the film introduces spiritual elements tied to Polynesian mythology, requiring Christian viewers to engage with discernment. Despite this, Moana 2 delivers a heartfelt narrative about selflessness, family, and embracing one’s calling.

Comprehensive Analysis

Story: 80/100 (Adventurous and Heartfelt)

The narrative explores Moana’s growth as a leader while delving into her spiritual connection with her ancestors and the ocean. Her journey is a powerful metaphor for finding identity and trusting in a greater purpose, which can resonate with Biblical themes of calling and servanthood (Jeremiah 29:11).

However, the plot occasionally feels overly familiar, borrowing heavily from the first movie’s structure. While the stakes are higher, the reliance on mythological elements might distract from the more grounded, emotional moments that defined the original.

Acting: 88/100 (Authentic and Engaging)

Auli’i Cravalho reprises her role as Moana, bringing emotional depth and maturity to the character. Supporting performances, including Dwayne Johnson’s Maui, inject humor and heart into the story. Newcomers in the cast add fresh dynamics, particularly a wise, elder figure who guides Moana in her journey.

Direction: 84/100 (Strong Vision)

The directors bring a cohesive vision to the sequel, blending action, humor, and introspection. The pacing feels steady, though some sequences—particularly involving the mythology—linger longer than necessary. Still, the balance between epic adventure and intimate character moments remains a strength.

Cinematography: 92/100 (Breathtaking)

The visuals are stunning, capturing the majesty of the ocean and the beauty of Polynesian landscapes. The use of vibrant colors and dynamic camera movements immerses viewers in Moana’s world, while the ocean itself feels alive, symbolizing God’s power in creation (Psalm 95:5).

Music: 89/100 (Memorable and Uplifting)

The soundtrack, composed by Lin-Manuel Miranda and Opetaia Foa’i, blends Polynesian rhythms with powerful ballads. Standout songs like “Legacy of the Tide” and “Anchor Me” echo themes of identity and courage. The music effectively complements the emotional and adventurous tone of the story, though it doesn’t quite surpass the iconic songs of the original.

Faith-Based Insights

Faith Lens: 75/100 (Thought-Provoking but Mixed)

While the story emphasizes courage, legacy, and selflessness—aligning with Biblical principles—the heavy reliance on Polynesian mythology and spiritual elements requires discernment. Themes of familial love and sacrifice offer positive takeaways, but Christian viewers may need to discuss how these ideas align with God’s Word (Exodus 20:3).

Biblically Accurate Score: 70/100 (Caution Advised)

The mythology-heavy narrative introduces ancestor worship and oceanic deities as central elements, which can conflict with a Biblical worldview. Parents may want to guide younger viewers in separating fictional mythology from Biblical truths. That said, the emphasis on Moana’s perseverance and servant-hearted leadership reflects Christ-like qualities.

Magic and Witchcraft Score: 65/100 (High Mythological Content)

The film’s use of Polynesian spiritual elements, such as Moana’s connection to her ancestors and the ocean’s mystical guidance, requires careful discernment. While these elements serve the story, they lean heavily into spiritual concepts that may not align with Biblical teachings.

Suggestive Themes Score (Sexuality and Relationships): 100/100 (Clean and Appropriate)

The film remains family-friendly, with no inappropriate content or romantic subplots, keeping the focus on Moana’s journey of leadership and growth.

Creation and Origins Score: 85/100 (Beautiful but Mythological)

The film’s breathtaking depiction of nature highlights the beauty of God’s creation (Genesis 1:31). However, the narrative attributes much of this beauty to fictional deities, which may require discussion about the true Creator (Psalm 19:1).

Moral and Thematic Evaluation

Moral Watchpoints

The film includes moments of peril and conflict, as well as heavy mythological themes, but avoids violence or objectionable content. The emotional intensity of Moana’s journey may be challenging for younger viewers.

Worldview Analysis: 72/100 (Culturally Rich but Spiritually Complex)

While the movie promotes values like courage, selflessness, and legacy, the reliance on mythology and ancestor worship detracts from a wholly Biblical worldview. With discernment, the positive themes can inspire meaningful discussions about identity and calling.

Redemptive Potential: 78/100 (Encouraging but Limited)

The story’s focus on leadership, perseverance, and sacrifice offers redemptive elements, though these are occasionally overshadowed by the mythological framework.

Parental Guidance

This film is suitable for families, but younger children may need guidance in processing the spiritual and mythological elements.

Discussion Prompts:

• How does Moana’s courage and selflessness reflect Christ’s example of servant leadership (Matthew 20:26-28)?

• How can we distinguish between fictional mythology and Biblical truth?

• What does the ocean’s beauty remind us about God’s creative power and sovereignty?

Favorite Moment

Moana’s heartfelt moment of doubt, where she prays (in her own way) for guidance and strength, resonates as a relatable struggle, prompting reflection on trusting God in times of uncertainty.

Favorite Line

“The waves are endless, but so is your courage.” – Moana’s mentor

Skip to the Verdict

Moana 2 is a visually stunning and emotionally rich sequel that builds on the legacy of the original. While its themes of courage, selflessness, and identity are inspiring, the heavy use of Polynesian mythology requires careful discernment for Christian viewers. With thoughtful discussion, the movie can be a springboard for exploring Biblical truths about God’s calling and creation.

Final Scores:

• Story: 80/100

• Acting: 88/100

• Direction: 84/100

• Cinematography: 92/100

• Music: 89/100

• Faith Lens: 75/100

• Biblically Accurate Score: 70/100

• Magic and Witchcraft Score: 65/100

• Creation and Origins Score: 85/100

• Overall: 80/100 – A Beautiful but Spiritually Complex Adventure

If You Liked This, Try…

• Moana (2016)

• Raya and the Last Dragon (2021)

• The Prince of Egypt (1998)

Reflection Prompt

Reflect on Jeremiah 29:11: How does trusting in God’s plans help us navigate moments of doubt and uncertainty, just as Moana must navigate the waves?