Moana 2 Wins Over Critics with Stunning Animation and Heartfelt Moments*

By Joshua Omoniyi 

In a promising start, Disney's Moana 2 has received glowing reviews from critics, with many praising the film's stunning animation, catchy music, and heartfelt moments. The sequel, set to hit theaters on November 27, has been hailed as a "worthy sequel" by critics, who are impressed by its ability to deliver another emotional and empowering journey.

The first reactions to Disney's latest animated offering arrived online, with critics sharing their thoughts on the highly anticipated sequel. Tessa Smith from Mama's Geeky praised the film, saying it offers "hilarious" humor, "great music," and "stunning" animation. Smith also highlighted the chemistry between Moana and Maui, saying their banter is "everything."

"'Moana 2' is a worthy sequel! Hilarious, great music & tons of. Another emotional & empowering journey on the sea. Animation is STUNNING! New characters are fantastic but at its best when Moana & Maui are together. Their banter is everything! That mid-credit scene [mind-blown emoji]!" Smith exclaimed.

Joseph Deckelmeier from Screen Rant also loved the film, saying it's a "delightful sequel" with breathtaking animation and a strong story. Deckelmeier particularly enjoyed Moana's little sister Simea, saying she "completely stole the show" for him.

"I absolutely loved 'Moana 2'! The animation is breathtaking, and Moana’s ensemble crew is fantastic. Her little sister completely stole the show for me. The story is strong and well-crafted. It's a delightful sequel. I also enjoyed loved the music!" Deckelmeier said.

Chris Killian from ComicBook also shared his thoughts on the film, saying that while the songs may not be "quite as catchy this go around," there are still "hilarious gags and heartfelt moments" along with a "deeper dive into Polynesian lore."

"While the songs aren’t quite as catchy this go round, Moana and Maui are still an infectious pair, delivering hilarious gags and heartfelt moments. Brilliant animation, a deeper dive into Polynesian lore, 'Moana 2' proves it’s worth sailing beyond the reef once again," Killian said.

The return of Moana and Maui is "just as great as you remember," according to The Hollywood Handle, who also noted the "new characters that worked so well in a story with massive heart."

"'Moana 2' features Moana & Maui’s return and they’re just as great as you can remember. The sequel reaches higher levels with outstanding visuals and new characters that worked so well in a story with massive heart. The songs might not be as remarkable as its predecessor but there are still some fun ones," The Hollywood Handle said.

The positive reactions are a welcome relief for Disney, which had initially planned Moana 2 as a Disney+ series before switching to a theatrical release. The change of plans raised concerns about the quality of the film, but it seems Disney has pulled through with a successful follow-up to Moana.

Disney appears to be betting big on the aquatic franchise going forward, with the sequel's release imminent and a live-action of Moana now in production to hit theaters on July 10, 2026, starring Catherine Laga'aia and Dwayne Johnson.

As one early reaction to Moana 2 hyped up the mid-credit scene as mind-blowing, fans should expect a tease for Moana 3 to close out the sequel. While no follow-up has been announced just yet, it seems one could be on the way if the second outing can rain money once more at the box office.

Moana 2 hits theaters on Wednesday, November 27. With its stunning animation, catchy music, and heartfelt moments, the sequel is shaping up to be a must-see film for fans of the original.