Three years had passed since the end of the first film. Moana returns from an island, where she discovered that there were other inhabited islands with humans.

During a ritual with her people, Moana is hit by lightning. She goes into a vision where her ancestors warn her that her island is in danger once again. An evil god, Nalo, used his powers to weaken the humans and keep them separate. He sunk the legendary island, Montufetu, which connected all the islands in Polynesia. Even Moana’s people will be in peril. Only Moana can change that.

Her parents suggest that she brings some people with her rather than go alone since this mission may be more dangerous. They include craftswoman Loto, cranky farmer Keke, and Maui-obessed guy, Moni.

On the way, the crew comes across a monstrous island that eats anything that goes through it. They also run into the same coconut pirates from three years ago. This time, the coconuts are on their side.

However, the crew falls into the ocean. Moana gets separated from them.

Meanwhile, Maui has been trapped by a bat goddess and is about to be eaten by a bunch of fish. But he manages to retrieve his special hook to turn into an animal and escape. He finds Loto, Moni, and Keke. But when he sees that Pua the pig and Hehe the chicken are with them, he figures out that Moana is missing.

Moana is with the bat goddess, the same one who’d trapped Maui. The goddess offers to help her. Moana obviously does not trust her. But the goddess reveals that if Moana gets lost, there are other paths she can follow. Then Moana begins to trust her.

Eventually, her crew and Maui find her. They then resume their journey.

However, once they find the area where Montufetu is, danger erupts. Will they be able to save the island? Or will they have to face a future of doom?

I was surprised to see how the structure of this movie was similar to that of the first one. Both the scenes and songs made the movie a bit predictable. But it didn’t overdo it. 

In fact, I saw a lot of strengths in this film. A major one is the characterization. Most of the characters from the first film come back. And they are more likable, especially Moana’s parents and Maui. Moana’s parents are no longer overprotective, and Maui has learned to be considerate and selfless.

Moana also has a little sister, Simea. Although their relationship is sweet, it seems a little strange that she was randomly introduced when there were no hints to her and Moana’s mother being pregnant in the previous movie. On the other hand, Simea could have been adopted, too.

One important detail to note is that this movie reveals the plot of the first installment, including some spoilers. So, I think it would be a good idea to see the 2016 movie before you see this one.

Overall, I enjoyed Moana 2. It is a fun, fast-paced flick that both adults and kids can enjoy.

I give it 5 out of 5 stars.