Expectations for ‘Moana 2’ Film

By August Tales

Disney’s Moana 2 surges into theaters this November 27, picking up three years after her queen-raising initial adventure. Our intrepid sailing-sensation, Moana, once again partners with self-loving demigod, Maui, for another aquatic escapade. To add more fuel to the anticipatory fire, Disney Consumer Products has hosted a virtual preview of companion merchandise hitting stores soon.

Dana Ledoux Miller, the movie’s director and co-writer, dropped some hints about the sequel’s direction. She also offered a sneak peek into the kind of challenges Moana has to tackle this time around.

Out on the Open Ocean again

“In the first movie, we focused on Moana’s individuality,” Miller explained. “In Moana 2, we wanted to test her leadership skills. The new crew may not be the world’s best, but their diverse personalities really push Moana to her limits.”

Family is at the crux of the Moana franchise, propelling our heroine on her journey. “In Moana 2, Moana grapples with leaving her loved ones, especially her little sister,” Miller revealed. “But anticipating a better future for her sister is what ultimately drives Moana back to the seas.”

Return of the Familiar

Fan-favorite characters also return for the sequel, joining Moana in her quest. Among the returning cohorts are Maui and the daft rooster, Heihei. And in a move designed to calm a storm of internet criticism, Moana’s potbellied pig, Pua, also joins the nautical journey.

“Pua’s absence from the sea-voyage in the first film didn’t sit well with fans. This time, we’ve made sure Pua is aboard the canoe,” Miller added with a laugh.

Merchandise Highlights

The preview meeting unveiled a fantastic range of merchandise linked to Moana 2, produced by several companies. Here are a few highlights:

Moana 2 Funko Collectibles

Funko Pops! plans to release figures based on the characters from Moana 2. You can expect Pop! Maui, complete with his magical fishhook; Pop! Moana and Little Sis Simea, and Pop! Keychain Moana. These figures will be up for pre-sale starting September 30.

Moana 2 LEGO Sets

LEGO, not to be outdone, will release Moana-themed building sets, featuring mini-figure versions of the characters, including Pua. These sets will debut in December 2024 and early January 2025.

Moana 2 Costumes and Accessories

With Halloween just around the corner, Jakks Pacific is releasing Moana’s Adventure Outfit for kids, based on Moana’s latest look in the sequel. You can add character to your outfit with the Sea Star Necklace and Maui’s Magical Fishhook, which both light up. These costume items release on September 29.

Return to the Big Screen

Remember, fans: Moana 2 makes its grand splash at the theaters on November 27, 2024. Brace yourselves for an enchanting journey of courage and discovery, brought to you by Disney Animation.