‘Moana 2’ Star Auli’i Cravalho on Her Character—'In This Film, We See That Even Moana Struggles' (EXCLUSIVE) (2024)

Disney’s highly anticipated Moana 2 is a beautiful animated musical and sequel that is definitely a must-see for kids of all ages (and their adults!). Moana 2 not only introduces Moana’s new little sister, Simea, but also new members of her community who the Moana fandom is sure to adore.

Directed by David G. Derrick, Jr., Jason Hand, and Dana Ledoux Miller, Moana 2 does a wonderful job of showcasing the “call of destiny”, embracing cultural heritage, the benefits of community, the power of strong sibling bonds, and the double-edged sword of taking risks.

That sibling bond is showcased in a video shot exclusively for Parents showcasing "sisters" Auli'i Cravalho (Moana) and Khaleesi Lambert-Tsuda (Simea) interviewing each other about all things Moana 2 ... and playing a fun little game of "this or that."

All About ‘Moana 2’

It’s been three years since we last saw Moana. Now as a young woman, she carries a confidence that denotes she’s experienced some victories and has overcome some trials. Now, as a “wayfinder”, Moana is revered in her community and as a respected role model.

In Moana 2, Moana reunites with Maui (Dwayne Johnson), as she embarks on a perilous journey to the uncharted seas of Oceania. But, she doesn’t journey alone. This time, Moana is joined by unique members of her community who all have different skill sets and personalities.

The additional voice cast includes Hualālai Chung as Moni, Rose Matafeo as Loto, David Fane as Kele, Awhimai Fraser as Matangi, Temuera Morrison as Chief Tui, Nicole Scherzinger as Sina, Rachel House as Gramma Tala, Gerald Faitala Ramsey as Tautai Vasa, and Alan Tudyk as Heihei.

Moana 2 centers on returning to one’s roots to connect to one’s purpose and highlights the connection between the past and the future.

After being struck by lightning at a community gathering, Moana has a vision, and she’s visited by her ancestors who empower her and foreshadow her next task of “connecting the people”. When Moana awakens, she not only feels called back to the deep ocean but she’s also burdened by the assignment as well.

Themes of ‘Moana 2’

Overall, like the original film, Moana 2 is very kid-friendly. There are so many positive themes throughout the movie that can open up meaningful discussions with your kids.

The Beauty of having a sibling

In Moana 2, we meet Simea, Moana’s adorable and precocious 3-year-old sister. They have similar character traits and share a special bond. Simea looks up to Moana and aspires to be like her. The relationship beautifully depicts how legacy can live on through siblings, and how positive sibling relationships make the family dynamic so much stronger.

In the exclusive video for Parents, Cravalho and Lambert-Tsuda talked about the relationship between Moana and her little sister.

“Simea is 3, and Moana is 19 in this film. So, they have a bit of an age gap, but Moana sees so much of herself in her younger sister. When Moana was growing up, 'wayfinding' was kind of a no-no,” Cravalho says. “[But] Simea’s growing up thinking that she can do anything. She could voyage out onto the sea, or she could stay home and be the leader of her people there. I love that they [their characters] are so similar and yet so different."

Cravalho then asks 8-year-old Lambert-Tsuda what makes Moana a good big sister to Simea.

“I feel like Moana's a really good role model for Simea because she really loves Simea. And, I think that Moana should take Simea on the next adventure,”she says.

The two of them then joke about how they should star in Moana 3 together to take that adventure together.

Finding Your Family

Another powerful theme is ‘reconnecting’ people, finding lost family, and leaving what’s familiar in pursuit of something greater. Throughout the movie, the message remains, “Where are my people?”.

For Moana, this call transcends beyond the people in her immediate family. As a 'Wayfinder,' she is called to connect people more largely. But, Moana’s immediate family is different from most, in that they do not try to hold her back to what is familiar. In fact, it is their belief in Moana that helps to propel her forward.

Taking Risks Requires Overcoming Fear

“For some things, we’re never ready.”

Overcoming fear and taking risks, even when afraid, is a big theme in this film. In many instances throughout the movie, Moana understands that the task will be daunting, but she dives in, literally.

At one point while in Oceania, Moana risks her life and earns a badge of honor (or partial demi-god status) as a result of her bravery. But, Cravalho knows all too well that being courageous and taking risks is not as easy as it seems, especially for kids and teens.

“I think I still struggle with taking risks. I think change is really scary no matter how old you get, but I like that Moana is a role model for others, but also for myself," Cravalho says. "I think that she is so brave and she has such a deep love for her community and her culture. And, yet I think in this film, we see that even she struggles, right? She hits her lows and, in the first film, Moana gave Maui a pep talk. And, in this film, you see that Moana needs a pep talk, too. So having a good community around you is really important for those days, which will inevitably come when you need some help.”

Is ‘Moana 2’ Ok for Younger Viewers?

Moana 2 is rated PG and runs about one hour and 40 minutes. There are positive and motivational themes within this movie that will encourage young viewers to want to learn more about their own culture and heritage.

This animated movie does a beautiful job of depicting another culture without erasure, and for the most part, stays true to the visual depictions of Moana’s people. The characters have beautiful round eyes, full lips, and melanated skin. This movie also provides an opportunity to discuss with kids and teens the benefits of embracing one's culture and studying the history of their ancestors.

Moana 2 also provides a good opportunity to talk about questions like:

• How do sibling relationships impact the family dynamic?
• How do you personally relate to having to maintain your family's legacy, or live up to the expectations of family members?
• What does it mean to answer one’s “calling” (as seen in Moana)?
• What does it mean to take positive risks? (as seen in Moana and her counterparts)

Some parts kids might find scary

Parents should know there is a “batwoman" who shapeshifts, naturally dead ancestors come back to visit Moana, and there’s necromancy or communicating with the dead. In one part, the character Moni has a near-death experience, and an evil likeness of Simea presents itself to Moana.

Violence

There’s not much adult-like violence. However, similar to the first movie, coconut-like pirate characters attack Moana and her crew with poison. Some sea creatures manifest that may frighten the littles.

Language and Sexual Innuendos

Like most Disney cartoon movies, there really isn't any adult language or sexual innuendo in the film despite the PG rating.

Moana 2 is out in theaters on November 27.