Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Moana 2 (animation; dubbed from the Hollywood film of the same name) is a sequel to Moana. Three years after the events of Moana, Moana receives an unexpected call from her wayfinding ancestors and forms her own crew to break God Nalo’s curse on hidden island Motufetu, which once connected the people of the ocean. She reunites with her friend, demigod Maui. Moana, Maui and Moana’s crew go to the far seas of Oceania and confront old as well as new foes.
Jared Bush, Dana Ledoux Miller and Ben Smith have written an interesting tale which keeps the audience engrossed. The screenplay, penned by Jared Bush and Dana Ledoux Miller, is fast-paced and is interestingly interspersed with songs which take the drama forward. The drama has thrills, emotions, comedy, action etc. In short, the screenplay keeps the viewers hooked.
The voice acting is proper. But some of the dubbing artistes are found a bit lacking.
David Derrick Jr., Jason Hand and Dana Ledoux Miller’s direction is nice. The trio has narrated the drama in an interesting style. Music (by Mark Mancina, Opetaia Foa’i, Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear) is entertaining. The lyrics have been intelligently written. Mark Mancina and Opetaia Foa’i’s background score is impactful. The animation is of a high standard. Editing is sharp. Dubbing is very good.
On the whole, Moana 2 is an entertaining fare, especially for the kids. In spite of this, its business will be limited because of the inherent resistance to animation films among the Hindi film-going audience. But the original English version, released simultaneously, will fare better.
Released 29-11-’24 at Jai Hind Mukta A2 (in 3D; daily 4 shows) and other cinemas of Bombay by UTV Software Communications Ltd. Publicity & opening: so-so. …….Also released all over. Opening was average at most of the places. The opening of the original English version was better.