The Nerd Social

Nathan is reviewing Moana 2 (2024), the much-anticipated sequel to the beloved 2016 animated film. This follow-up expands on Moana's world with new characters and adventures, but does it live up to the magic of the original?

#Moana2 #Disney #DwayneJohnson

00:00 Introduction 00:51 Spoiler-Free Logline 01:08 Director & Writer Introductions 01:36 Main Cast Introduction 04:09 Expanded Analysis 07:07 Conclusion / Rating

Spoiler-Free Summary (Logline): After receiving an unexpected call from her wayfinding ancestors, Moana must journey to the far seas of Oceania and into dangerous, long-lost waters for an adventure unlike anything she's ever faced.

TNS Rating System: 1/10 "Dumpster fire" A waste of time that might make you so depressed you don't want to talk to anyone. 2/10 "Drunk Watch" A film only suitable for inebriated viewing with friends. 3/10 "Hate Watch" A film that annoys you so much you must complain on a group chat to friends. 4/10 "Couch Co-op" A film that's perfect for a casual lazy night on the couch with your best friend. 5/10 "Game Night" A film that's perfect for a fun night in with a group of friends if you have other activities planned. 6/10 "Date Night" A film that won’t ruin a special evening with your significant other but you won’t revisit. 7/10 "Dinner Party" A film worth watching and dissecting with friends at home over good food and good wine. 8/10 "Road Trip" A film that's so good that it's worth a road trip with friends to the theaters to enjoy. 9/10 "Movie Marathon" A film that's so exceptional friends will theater hop with you to see it multiple times. 10/10 "Theater Rental" Invite the neighborhood! A film that transcends its medium and becomes a must-see event.

Cast & Crew Cast:

• Auli’i Cravalho as Moana – the adventurous daughter of Chief Tui, whose connection to the ocean remains central to her story.
• Dwayne Johnson as Maui – the shapeshifting demigod who once again plays a key role in Moana's journey.
• Temuera Morrison as Tui – Moana's father and chief of Motunui.
• Nicole Scherzinger as Sina – Moana's supportive mother.
• Khaleesi Lambert-Tsuda as Simea – Moana's spirited little sister.
• Rose Matafeo as Loto – a brainy but quirky member of Moana’s wayfinding crew.
• David Fane as Kele – a grumpy farmer with unexpected wisdom.
• Hualālai Chung as Moni – a member of Moana’s crew and an unabashed fan of Maui.
• Rachel House, as Tala – Moana’s grandmother, appearing as a manta ray spirit.
• Gerald Ramsey as Tautai Vasa – Moana's ancestor with ties to the ocean’s mysteries.

Crew:

• Directors: David G. Derrick Jr., Jason Hand, Dana Ledoux Miller
• Writers: Jared Bush, Dana Ledoux Miller, Bek Smith, Bryson Chun
• Composers: Opetaia Foa'i, Mark Mancina
• Songs: Abigail Barlow, Emily Bear