Auli’i Cravalho, the star of the Moana franchise, teased fans at D23 with the promise that they are just getting started with Moana 2. With the film’s predecessor already making waves in the animated industry, the anticipation for the sequel is high. While details about a potential third installment were not explicitly shared, it is clear that Disney is focusing on building on the success of original animated films like Moana.
In recent years, Disney has been making a conscious effort to revive its box office success with sequels to beloved animated films. The announcement of Incredibles 3 at D23 and the record-breaking success of Disney/Pixar’s Inside Out 2 are clear examples of this trend. The pressure is on for Moana 2 to deliver a compelling story that lives up to its predecessor.
In Moana 2, the titular character embarks on a new adventure in Oceania, accompanied by the demigod Maui. The story follows Moana as she explores the horizon of the sea in search of her people and embraces her own power and strength. Auli’i Cravalho, who voices Moana, shared that the sequel reflects themes of womanhood and empowerment, resonating with the current cultural climate.
Jared Bush, one of the writers of Moana 2, acknowledged the unique challenge of creating a musical sequel. In musicals, the main character often sings about their dreams and achieves something significant. For Moana 2, the focus is on Moana’s personal growth and understanding of herself. The team had to navigate the balance between Moana’s desire for adventure and her love for her island home.
Interestingly, the success of Moana as an animated film has paved the way for a live-action adaptation. While Moana 2 takes center stage in the franchise’s development, plans for a live-action version are also in the works. Auli’i Cravalho will not reprise her role in the live-action film, signaling a new chapter in the evolution of the Moana story.
As Moana 2 gears up for its release, fans are eager to see how the franchise will continue to evolve. With themes of empowerment, cultural representation, and personal discovery at its core, Moana has become more than just a Disney princess movie. The success of the sequel will be a testament to Disney’s ability to create compelling stories that resonate with audiences of all ages.
Moana 2 represents a significant milestone in the evolution of the franchise. With a focus on empowering themes, compelling storytelling, and the promise of new adventures, the sequel sets the stage for an exciting new chapter in the Moana story. As fans eagerly await the release of the film, one thing is certain – Moana’s journey is far from over.