Rated PG

It’s been eight years since we met the Polynesian heroine Moana as she teamed up with the demigod Maui to bring peace to her people. This time around, she’s more in touch with her powers, but has a new challenge of reuniting lost tribes under the curse of an ancient god.

All of the elements that made the first MOANA shine are here. The voice cast, including Dwayne Johnson as Maui, brings the characters wonderfully to life. The animation is beyond impressive, presenting the beauty of tropical waters and islands. And there are some catchy tunes, though not as many bangers as in the first film.

This is a rare sequel that doesn’t feel like a retread, enriching the characters and offering them an exciting adventure filled with magic and monsters.

The emotional center still grounds this film, and the comic relief with the pig, the chicken, and Maui’s ego are well placed.

MOANA 2 gets four ocean waves out of five. I’m Kevin Carr, and that’s the way I see it.

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