Anticipation Builds for ‘Moana 2’ Streaming Release on March 12

BURBANK, Calif. — Disney‘s highly anticipated animated sequel, “Moana 2,” will debut for streaming on Disney+ on March 12, following a successful theatrical release that grossed over $1 billion globally.

Initially designed as a Disney+ series, the project transitioned to a feature film format. Released in theaters on November 27, 2024, “Moana 2” quickly became a box office sensation, ranking as the third highest-grossing movie of 2024 behind other Disney hits like “Deadpool & Wolverine” and “Inside Out 2.” The sequel reunites the titular character, Moana, voiced by Auli'i Cravalho, and the demigod Maui, portrayed by Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, as they embark on a new adventure three years after the events of the original film.

In this sequel, Moana receives an unexpected call from her wayfinding ancestors. She sets out to explore the far seas of Oceania, aiming to break a historical curse that has plagued the lost island of Motufetu and release its people. Alongside a new crew of unlikely seafarers, Moana’s journey promises vibrant visuals and engaging encounters, though some critics have noted the plot lacks the depth of its predecessor.

Critics have offered mixed reviews about the film. According to sources, while the animation and atmosphere maintain the series’ signature vibrancy, the narrative may not be as compelling as the original. “Moana 2” currently holds a 61% score on Rotten Tomatoes, just shy of the threshold for most top-ranking films. Still, its box office performance and dedicated fan base indicate a positive reception overall.

Directors David G. Derrick Jr., Jason Hand, and Dana Ledoux Miller each made their directorial debuts with the film. Notably, the musical score, composed initially by Lin-Manuel Miranda, saw a change in the sequel, with Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear stepping in for a fresh take on the beloved soundtrack.

Alongside returning voice actors, the cast includes Khaleesi Lambert-Tsuda, Temuera Morrison, Nicole Scherzinger, and Rose Matafeo, among others. As expectations run high, Disney has confirmed that physical copies of “Moana 2” will also be available on Blu-ray and DVD starting March 18.

With its robust box office sales and a growing audience eager for the streaming experience, “Moana 2” is poised to continue capturing hearts and assisting Disney in solidifying its franchise for a new generation. This sequel not only reinforces the thematic elements of cultural heritage and adventure but also sets the stage for a live-action remake of the original movie, bringing back familiar faces.

As fans prepare for “Moana 2” to arrive on Disney+, the implications of this sequel aim to further expand Moana’s story and open doors for potential future projects, solidifying its place within the animated film landscape.