Moana, the animated musical film that captivated audiences worldwide in 2016, made a stunning return to theatres with a sequel on November 27, 2024. Directed by David Derrick Jr., the film brings back beloved characters, with Dwayne Johnson reprising his role as Maui and Auli’i Cravalho returning as Moana.
Following the enthusiastic reception of its theatrical release, the movie is now set to add even more excitement for viewers with its digital version. Before we delve into the details of its recent OTT release, here’s a breakdown of what fans can expect from its comeback.
Moana 2 hits $960 Million Worldwide
Moana 2’s box office collection reached $960 million worldwide, placing it in fourth place among the most popular movies of 2024. Although the movie received mixed reviews from critics, younger audiences and families particularly enjoyed the enchanting graphics and the well-paced storyline. Some critics felt that the sequel had a weaker narrative than the original, yet many praised it for its touching story and stunning visuals.
The plot picks up three years after the first film, following Moana and Maui as they embark on a dangerous mission to uncover the truth about the missing island of Motufetu. As with previous animated films, the combination of Polynesian folklore, vibrant visuals, and strong storytelling showcases Disney’s talent for creating engaging and outstanding narratives.
When is Moana 2 Releasing on OTT and Disney+?
For those eager to relive Moana’s latest journey at home, the wait isn’t long.
Digital Purchase/Rental: Beginning January 11, 2025, Moana 2 will be available for streaming on platforms such as Amazon Prime, Apple TV, and YouTube television. While the original film will also be broadcast, there will be options to rent or buy the movie.
Streaming on Disney+: Subscribers to Disney+ Hotstar can access Moana 2 online starting March 12, 2025. This aligns with Disney’s established 100-day theatrical release schedule, which coordinates box-office performance with home-release formats.
On Disney+, the movie is anticipated to release at midnight PT (3 a.m. ET) in the U.S. and at 8 a.m. UK time, aligning with Disney’s typical global release schedule.
What to Expect from Moana 2
Moana’s adventure continues as she receives an enigmatic summons from her wayfinding ancestors. She follows this call and embarks on new voyages with Maui by her side and a group of fellow sailors. Expect an engaging storyline, stunning visuals, and a catchy, Grammy-winning soundtrack accompanying this new chapter. Every aspect of the film has been crafted with care, blending the original’s enchantment with fresh characters and challenges.
Cast and Creative Team
Moana 2 boasts an impressive voice cast and skilled production team:
- Dwayne Johnson as Maui.
- Auli’i Cravalho reprises her role as Moana
On the directorial side, three directors, David Derrick Jr., Ledoux Miller, and Jason Hand, contributed to bringing this vision to life. However, writers Jared Bush and Ledoux Miller reworked the screenplay to maintain the tone and themes of the original film. The movie has a runtime of approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes, making it ideal for family viewing.
Critical Response and Awards
The animation quality is certainly high, and it features a musical score, although it is considered less groundbreaking than its predecessor. Some reviews of Moana 2 reflected this sentiment. Nevertheless, the film received praise from audiences for remaining true to the spirit of the original. Its nomination for Best Animated film at the Golden Globes signifies its most noteworthy recognition to date.
Fans and critics alike acknowledge that while Moana 2 may not revolutionize the Disney narrative of love and hardship, it still offers an exhilarating journey filled with adventure, humour, and emotional resonance. Themes of identity, exploration, and community resonate with audiences, ensuring the film holds a special place in Disney’s portfolio.
Conclusion
While the visuals captivate and the music resonates, the essence of Moana 2 remains, carrying forward the legacy of the original that inspired countless voyagers to embrace their Polynesian roots. The film will be available for rental or purchase in early January, or you can wait for its Disney Plus streaming premiere next March.
Either way, it promises an entertaining adventure for viewers of all ages. As Moana’s journey unfolds, expect to see Polynesian culture, powerful themes, and familiar characters blending into an exquisite array of experiences. With its remarkable cast and talented creative team, Moana 2 showcases Disney’s talent for crafting stories that both inspire and entertain. Join Moana and Maui on yet another extraordinary expedition & enjoy watching Moana 2 on OTT!
