Moana VS Moana 2
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VOICE OVER: Emily Brayton
WRITTEN BY: Nick Spake
Set sail for an epic showdown as we compare "Moana" and its 2024 sequel! From stunning animation to catchy tunes, we'll explore which film makes the biggest splash. Join us as we dive into the stories, characters, and cultural richness that define these Disney adventures. Which Moana movie will claim victory in this oceanic battle? We'll examine five key rounds: Story, Animation, Music, Supporting Cast, and Moana's Arc. Discover how the sequel builds on the original's success and where it charts its own course. Get ready for a journey across the seas of cinematic comparison!
Moana vs. Moana 2
Welcome to MsMojo, and in this installment of Versus, we’re pitting the original “Moana” against its 2024 sequel, determining which film is more worthy of a “you’re welcome.” A few spoilers may follow.
Round 1: Story
Centered on a young woman who longs to explore the sea despite her father’s wishes, “Moana” sounds like “The Little Mermaid” in reverse. That isn’t surprising since directors John Musker and Ron Clements worked on both films. Looking beyond the surface, “Moana” distinguished itself with an emphasis on Polynesian culture and myths. While some aspects derive from actual legendary figures like Maui, others are entirely fictionalized like the titular heroine. The story strikes a solid balance between the two as Moana sets out on a road trip - or ocean trip - to find Maui, the living island Te Fiti, and - most importantly - herself.
The setup for “Moana 2” also sounds familiar as our heroine embarks on another voyage across the ocean to locate another island that’s been corrupted. By raising this island, Moana seeks to help her people while uniting others across the seas. Along the way, she clashes with the Kakamora again, meets up with Maui again, and learns something about herself… again. The story isn’t a complete rehash with some new themes and ideas introduced, but “Moana 2” doesn’t hesitate to follow its predecessor’s proven blueprint. The fact this was originally going to be a Disney+ series gives the story an episodic feel, hurting its pacing at times.
Although both films keep the audience emotionally engaged, “Moana” overcame any sense of familiarity with fresh characters and environments. “Moana 2” relies a little too heavily on what’s worked in the past and can flow more like a serialized TV show than a film. Our first point thus goes to the OG.
“Moana” 1 / “Moana 2” 0
Round 2: Animation
“Moana” was somewhat uncharted territory for Musker and Clements. While they had incorporated CG elements into their past films, the duo was primarily known for 2D animation. The two not only made a seamless transition to 3D, but also pushed the technology forward. As realistic as the water looks, the animators and effects artists give the element a personality that splashes to life. “Moana” doesn’t abandon Musker and Clements’ 2D roots either, enlisting Eric Goldberg to animate Maui’s hand-drawn tattoos. Using the Meander animation tool, the team combined 3D and 2D techniques during sequences like “You’re Welcome,” celebrating the best of both worlds.
Being conceived as a streaming series, “Moana 2” was outsourced to Disney’s Vancouver animation studio. As such, you might expect a visual downgrade akin to Disney’s straight-to-video sequels like “The Return of Jafar.” Yet, “Moana 2” manages to match its predecessor’s quality animation. Maybe even surpass it thanks to eight years of technological advances. The storm god Nalo provided a particular hurdle, requiring the crew to animate a whole weather system. The new again blends with the old, bringing Eric Goldberg back on board to oversee the animation of Maui’s tattoos. Technology aside, the animation largely contributes to the film’s comedic timing and quiet emotional moments.
Despite entering development as a series, “Moana 2’s” visuals are worthy of the big screen. While the sequel may be a bit more technologically advanced, the original has more iconic imagery. We’re splitting hairs at this point, so we’re calling this round a draw.
“Moana” 2 / “Moana 2” 1
Round 3: Music
Although he collaborated with Mark Mancina and Opetaia Foa'i, Lin-Manuel Miranda was the life force behind “Moana’s” songs. Miranda’s lifetime appreciation for Disney musicals is on full display, from the Oscar-nominated “I Want” song “How Far I’ll Go,” to the comedic “You’re Welcome,” to the semi-villain song, “Shiny.” At the same time, Miranda injects his signature sound while paying deep respect to Polynesian culture. Even if English is the only language you speak, you’ll still find yourself singing along with every lyric of “We Know the Way.” Between the soothing “Where You Are” and the atmospheric “Know Who You Are,” the soundtrack has zero skips.
While Mancina and Foaʻi returned to work on the sequel’s score, songwriting duties shifted to Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear of “The Unofficial Bridgerton Musical.” Toe-tapping tunes like “We’re Back” and “What Could Be Better Than This?” fit well with the first film’s sound. That said, the soundtrack struggles to get out from under its predecessor’s shadow. “Beyond” has a mysterious allure, but it’s hard not to think of “How Far I’ll Go” as Moana revisits the same landmarks. “Can I Get a Chee Hoo?” is fun, although it’s no “You’re Welcome.” For us, the most unique standout is “Get Lost,” an infectious song we’d gladly get lost in.
Although the songs in “Moana 2” are much better than some critics give them credit, the first film set a high bar that’s hard to top, especially without Miranda. The original knows the way.
“Moana” 3 / “Moana 2” 1
Round 4: Supporting Cast
“Moana” had no shortage of memorable characters with Maui stealing the show, Heihei making us laugh with every squawk, and Grandma Tala balancing humor with heart. If we had a complaint, it’s that some supporting players get lost in the shuffle. Pua the pig is introduced only to be left behind. The Kakamora pop up for a thrilling action set piece, yet disappear for the rest of the movie. Likewise, Tamatoa shines in his musical number, but is forgotten about until a post-credits scene. While we could’ve used more of these characters, the dynamic between Moana and Maui is more than enough to keep the story afloat.
Seemingly in response to the first film, “Moana 2” gives us more of Pua and the Kakamora. It also makes way for new characters like Moana’s crewmates Loto, Kele, and Moni[a]. While they’re enjoyable enough company, their screen time comes at the expense of Maui, who we keep waiting to reunite with Moana. Again, a few other characters deserved more substantial roles like Moana’s little sister Simea and the bat lady Matangi, although both make the most of their limited screen time. Let’s not forget the villain Nalo… actually maybe we should since the film kind of forgets about him until the mid-credits.
The supporting casts in both films have their pros and cons. In the first film, some characters are underutilized. The sequel, meanwhile, perhaps has one too many characters to keep track of. We’re giving “Moana 2” a slight edge since it’s more of an ensemble piece, even if it feels like some of the character development got lost in the transition from streaming series to theatrical film. The sequel narrowly takes this round.
“Moana” 3 / “Moana 2” 2
Round 5: Moana’s Arc
Moana signified a turning of the tide at Disney Animation as heroines became more and more independent. While it’s certainly a step in the right direction, Disney sometimes risks making their female protagonists too perfect. They didn’t fall into this trap with Moana, who’s a strong role model, but is still figuring out who she wants to be. Her emotional journey is every bit as compelling as the physical obstacles she encounters. We feel the gravitas as Moana sets sail, not knowing what awaits. That mystery is part of what motivates her to keep going as she awakens what’s always been inside of her.
As far as Moana went in the first film, the sequel continues to push her beyond. The emotional stakes are raised with Moana now having a sister to return to and a crew to keep safe, putting her leadership to the test. The physical stakes are raised as well with Moana accepting a mission no mortal can survive. Showing just how far she’ll go for her people and the ocean, Moana makes the ultimate sacrifice in the end, although this is quickly retconned. With “Moana 3” seeming inevitable, we wish “Moana 2” left her fate more open-ended, although her new demigoddess status does open the door to new possibilities.
Moana remains one of Disney’s most absorbing protagonists. While the sequel continued to evolve her as a leader, her arc hits one too many beats we’ve seen before. The same can be said about the sequel overall. The first film did most of the heavy lifting with a lot of residual goodwill carrying over to “Moana 2.” The tribe has spoken and the winner is “Moana.”
“Moana” 4 / “Moana 2” 2
What do you think? Should we have given “Moana 2” a Chee Hoo or does every path lead you back to the first film? Let us know in the comments.
[a]mow-nee: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/JfE1u1okkDM
Welcome to MsMojo, and in this installment of Versus, we’re pitting the original “Moana” against its 2024 sequel, determining which film is more worthy of a “you’re welcome.” A few spoilers may follow.
Round 1: Story
Centered on a young woman who longs to explore the sea despite her father’s wishes, “Moana” sounds like “The Little Mermaid” in reverse. That isn’t surprising since directors John Musker and Ron Clements worked on both films. Looking beyond the surface, “Moana” distinguished itself with an emphasis on Polynesian culture and myths. While some aspects derive from actual legendary figures like Maui, others are entirely fictionalized like the titular heroine. The story strikes a solid balance between the two as Moana sets out on a road trip - or ocean trip - to find Maui, the living island Te Fiti, and - most importantly - herself.
The setup for “Moana 2” also sounds familiar as our heroine embarks on another voyage across the ocean to locate another island that’s been corrupted. By raising this island, Moana seeks to help her people while uniting others across the seas. Along the way, she clashes with the Kakamora again, meets up with Maui again, and learns something about herself… again. The story isn’t a complete rehash with some new themes and ideas introduced, but “Moana 2” doesn’t hesitate to follow its predecessor’s proven blueprint. The fact this was originally going to be a Disney+ series gives the story an episodic feel, hurting its pacing at times.
Although both films keep the audience emotionally engaged, “Moana” overcame any sense of familiarity with fresh characters and environments. “Moana 2” relies a little too heavily on what’s worked in the past and can flow more like a serialized TV show than a film. Our first point thus goes to the OG.
“Moana” 1 / “Moana 2” 0
Round 2: Animation
“Moana” was somewhat uncharted territory for Musker and Clements. While they had incorporated CG elements into their past films, the duo was primarily known for 2D animation. The two not only made a seamless transition to 3D, but also pushed the technology forward. As realistic as the water looks, the animators and effects artists give the element a personality that splashes to life. “Moana” doesn’t abandon Musker and Clements’ 2D roots either, enlisting Eric Goldberg to animate Maui’s hand-drawn tattoos. Using the Meander animation tool, the team combined 3D and 2D techniques during sequences like “You’re Welcome,” celebrating the best of both worlds.
Being conceived as a streaming series, “Moana 2” was outsourced to Disney’s Vancouver animation studio. As such, you might expect a visual downgrade akin to Disney’s straight-to-video sequels like “The Return of Jafar.” Yet, “Moana 2” manages to match its predecessor’s quality animation. Maybe even surpass it thanks to eight years of technological advances. The storm god Nalo provided a particular hurdle, requiring the crew to animate a whole weather system. The new again blends with the old, bringing Eric Goldberg back on board to oversee the animation of Maui’s tattoos. Technology aside, the animation largely contributes to the film’s comedic timing and quiet emotional moments.
Despite entering development as a series, “Moana 2’s” visuals are worthy of the big screen. While the sequel may be a bit more technologically advanced, the original has more iconic imagery. We’re splitting hairs at this point, so we’re calling this round a draw.
“Moana” 2 / “Moana 2” 1
Round 3: Music
Although he collaborated with Mark Mancina and Opetaia Foa'i, Lin-Manuel Miranda was the life force behind “Moana’s” songs. Miranda’s lifetime appreciation for Disney musicals is on full display, from the Oscar-nominated “I Want” song “How Far I’ll Go,” to the comedic “You’re Welcome,” to the semi-villain song, “Shiny.” At the same time, Miranda injects his signature sound while paying deep respect to Polynesian culture. Even if English is the only language you speak, you’ll still find yourself singing along with every lyric of “We Know the Way.” Between the soothing “Where You Are” and the atmospheric “Know Who You Are,” the soundtrack has zero skips.
While Mancina and Foaʻi returned to work on the sequel’s score, songwriting duties shifted to Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear of “The Unofficial Bridgerton Musical.” Toe-tapping tunes like “We’re Back” and “What Could Be Better Than This?” fit well with the first film’s sound. That said, the soundtrack struggles to get out from under its predecessor’s shadow. “Beyond” has a mysterious allure, but it’s hard not to think of “How Far I’ll Go” as Moana revisits the same landmarks. “Can I Get a Chee Hoo?” is fun, although it’s no “You’re Welcome.” For us, the most unique standout is “Get Lost,” an infectious song we’d gladly get lost in.
Although the songs in “Moana 2” are much better than some critics give them credit, the first film set a high bar that’s hard to top, especially without Miranda. The original knows the way.
“Moana” 3 / “Moana 2” 1
Round 4: Supporting Cast
“Moana” had no shortage of memorable characters with Maui stealing the show, Heihei making us laugh with every squawk, and Grandma Tala balancing humor with heart. If we had a complaint, it’s that some supporting players get lost in the shuffle. Pua the pig is introduced only to be left behind. The Kakamora pop up for a thrilling action set piece, yet disappear for the rest of the movie. Likewise, Tamatoa shines in his musical number, but is forgotten about until a post-credits scene. While we could’ve used more of these characters, the dynamic between Moana and Maui is more than enough to keep the story afloat.
Seemingly in response to the first film, “Moana 2” gives us more of Pua and the Kakamora. It also makes way for new characters like Moana’s crewmates Loto, Kele, and Moni[a]. While they’re enjoyable enough company, their screen time comes at the expense of Maui, who we keep waiting to reunite with Moana. Again, a few other characters deserved more substantial roles like Moana’s little sister Simea and the bat lady Matangi, although both make the most of their limited screen time. Let’s not forget the villain Nalo… actually maybe we should since the film kind of forgets about him until the mid-credits.
The supporting casts in both films have their pros and cons. In the first film, some characters are underutilized. The sequel, meanwhile, perhaps has one too many characters to keep track of. We’re giving “Moana 2” a slight edge since it’s more of an ensemble piece, even if it feels like some of the character development got lost in the transition from streaming series to theatrical film. The sequel narrowly takes this round.
“Moana” 3 / “Moana 2” 2
Round 5: Moana’s Arc
Moana signified a turning of the tide at Disney Animation as heroines became more and more independent. While it’s certainly a step in the right direction, Disney sometimes risks making their female protagonists too perfect. They didn’t fall into this trap with Moana, who’s a strong role model, but is still figuring out who she wants to be. Her emotional journey is every bit as compelling as the physical obstacles she encounters. We feel the gravitas as Moana sets sail, not knowing what awaits. That mystery is part of what motivates her to keep going as she awakens what’s always been inside of her.
As far as Moana went in the first film, the sequel continues to push her beyond. The emotional stakes are raised with Moana now having a sister to return to and a crew to keep safe, putting her leadership to the test. The physical stakes are raised as well with Moana accepting a mission no mortal can survive. Showing just how far she’ll go for her people and the ocean, Moana makes the ultimate sacrifice in the end, although this is quickly retconned. With “Moana 3” seeming inevitable, we wish “Moana 2” left her fate more open-ended, although her new demigoddess status does open the door to new possibilities.
Moana remains one of Disney’s most absorbing protagonists. While the sequel continued to evolve her as a leader, her arc hits one too many beats we’ve seen before. The same can be said about the sequel overall. The first film did most of the heavy lifting with a lot of residual goodwill carrying over to “Moana 2.” The tribe has spoken and the winner is “Moana.”
“Moana” 4 / “Moana 2” 2
What do you think? Should we have given “Moana 2” a Chee Hoo or does every path lead you back to the first film? Let us know in the comments.
[a]mow-nee: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/JfE1u1okkDM
