Moana 2 has finally been released but everyone's making the same complaint about the sequel. Find out more here...

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Moana 2 Slammed By Fans And Critics As Everyone Has The Same Complaint

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12:21 27 November 2024

Updated: 10:57 29 November 2024


Fans and critics are making the same complaint about Moana 2 following its release.

The original Moana movie captured hearts in 2016, taking viewers on a breathtaking journey through Polynesian mythology and stunning oceanic landscapes.

Fans have long awaited a sequel to the story of Moana Waialiki, the courageous wayfinder, and her adventures alongside Maui, the demi-god voiced by Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson.

And now, nearly a decade later, the sequel has finally hit the big screen.

Yet instead of the universal acclaim many expected, the film has stirred up a chorus of mixed reactions – and it all boils down to one surprising critique.

Moana 2 (2024).
Everyone’s making the same complaint about Moana 2. Credit: Disney

The Disney sequel picks up a few years after the events of the original.

Moana has fully embraced her role as the leader of Motunui and continues her mission to protect her people and their way of life.

However, new challenges arise from environmental threats and long-forgotten mythical forces.

Along the way, Moana teams up with old allies like Maui while encountering new characters who bring fresh dynamics to the tale.

Moana 2 (2024).
Expectations for Moana 2 were sky-high. Credit: Disney

Understandably, expectations for Moana 2 were sky-high, with fans eager to see how the sequel would expand on the characters and world they’ve come to love.

Although some viewers aren’t entirely happy about the installment, it appears to have delivered on some fronts.

Viewers are praising the visuals, which are as vibrant and captivating as ever.

Yet for all its strengths, the film has left many viewers underwhelmed, and one specific complaint has dominated online discussions.

Moana 2 (2024).
Moana 2 was originally intended to be a TV spinoff. Credit: Disney

Critics and fans alike feel Moana 2 is strangely disjointed, which stems from an unusual origin: the film’s story was initially developed as part of a Moana TV series, as per Variety.

Many fans have aired their frustrations on social media, with one person saying: “Disjointed, messy, low stakes story; underwhelming songs that unsuccessfully imitate the first’s masterful tunes; forgettable new characters. Feels like a 2000s direct-to-video sequel. Would’ve worked far better as the Disney+ limited series it was originally planned as.”

A second agrees: “It’s shallow, generic, poorly paced, and nearly as confusing as Frozen 2. It’s at its best when it references the original.”

Moana 2 (2024).
People are saying Moana 2 is ‘disjointed’ and ‘poorly paced.’ Credit: Disney

“Originally conceived as a Disney+ series, the film never shakes off that streaming feel. The editing and pacing are rough and while kids might enjoy it, Moana 2 will play more like a direct-to-video sequel,” opines a third.

Critics feel similar, with CBC News‘s Jackson Weaver commenting: “While it may have worked as a cable-TV spinoff, as it is, Moana 2 is at best sub-par escapism. At worst, it’s an anger-inducing waste of time.”

Likewise, Flick Feast‘s Calum Cooper says: “Had it been its intended TV show, with more time to experiment, this could have amounted to something decently entertaining.”

Despite the criticism, Moana 2 still has plenty to offer – its celebration of Polynesian culture, stunning visuals, and heartfelt moments.

Watch the official trailer for Moana 2 below…

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