Disney’s Moana has become one of the most beloved animated franchises of the modern era. With stunning visuals, unforgettable music, and a fearless heroine at its heart, the two Moana movies — Moana (2016) and Moana 2 (2024) — tell a powerful story of identity, leadership, and the connection between people and nature.
Here’s a deep dive into both films, their themes, characters, and cultural significance.
🌺 Moana (2016): The Wayfinding Begins
Released in November 2016, Moana introduced audiences to a young Polynesian girl chosen by the ocean to restore the heart of the goddess Te Fiti and save her island.
🎬 Plot Summary:
Moana, the daughter of Chief Tui on the island of Motunui, longs to explore beyond the reef. When her island begins to die, she sets sail to find the demigod Maui and return the stolen heart of Te Fiti. The journey teaches her about her ancestors, the art of wayfinding, and most importantly — herself.
🌟 Key Characters:
- Moana Waialiki (Auli’i Cravalho) – Brave, independent, and deeply connected to her people and the ocean.
- Maui (Dwayne Johnson) – A powerful but flawed demigod with a magical fishhook and a big ego.
- Grandma Tala – Moana’s spiritual guide who encourages her to embrace her destiny.
🎶 Memorable Songs:
- How Far I’ll Go
- You’re Welcome
- We Know the Way
🌍 Cultural Impact:
Moana was celebrated for its respectful portrayal of Polynesian cultures, its strong female lead, and its breathtaking animation. It became an instant classic and inspired everything from merchandise to educational content about wayfinding and island life.
🌊 Moana 2 (2024): A New Voyage Begins
Nearly a decade later, Moana 2 hit theaters in November 2024, continuing the story with more maturity, new characters, and a deeper dive into Pacific Islander heritage.
🎬 Plot Summary:
Set three years after the first film, Moana 2 follows Moana as she answers a call from her wayfinding ancestors to journey across the far seas. Her mission? Unite distant island civilizations by uncovering the truth behind the hidden island of Motufetu and lifting a curse cast by the storm god Nalo.
🌟 New & Returning Characters:
- Moana (Auli’i Cravalho) – Now a confident leader and navigator.
- Maui (Dwayne Johnson) – Returns to help guide and protect Moana.
- Moni, Loto, Kele, and Matangi – New crewmates with distinct skills and personalities.
- Simea – Moana’s adventurous younger sister.
🎶 New Music:
With a fresh soundtrack by Abigail Barlow & Emily Bear (alongside returning composers Mark Mancina and Opetaia Foa‘i), standout songs include:
- Beyond (Moana’s new anthem)
- Can I Get a Chee Hoo? (a fun Maui number)
🌀 A Bold Ending:
The climax of Moana 2 sees Moana sacrificing herself to save the islands and being reborn as a demigod — symbolizing her complete transformation from explorer to guardian of her people.
🌟 Why the Moana Movies Matter
The Moana franchise stands out not just for its cinematic quality, but for its deep cultural reverence, empowering messages, and the way it gives voice to the Pacific Islander heritage. Both films are more than adventures — they’re lessons in leadership, sustainability, ancestry, and identity.
🎥 What’s Next?
With Moana 2 ending on a mythic note and a live-action adaptation starring Dwayne Johnson already in the works (expected in 2026), Moana’s story is far from over.