Moana’s Unfinished Adventure

With the start of a new semester, the campus is filled with vibrant colors. This season of excitement and uncertainty could mark the beginning of a new challenge or a journey into the unknown. Why not take inspiration from Moana’s courageous voyage to Motufetu? Embark on an adventure with Moana 2, sail across the magnificent ocean, and explore new horizons with the Sungkyun Times (SKT).

I Am Moana

-The Next Voyage

The Moana series depicts the unique history, culture, and spirits of the Polynesian region. Polynesia is a group of about 1,000 islands in a triangular shape between Hawaii, New Zealand, and Easter Island in Oceania. The movie gained inspiration from how the Polynesians explored the islands and developed their navigation skills. This is especially reflected in the characters in the film. For instance, Maui, who is Moana’s sailing partner in the movie, is a demigod who appears in Polynesian mythology. The movie also shows the tribe’s special rituals, their traditions of respecting the ocean, and how they work together as a united nation. Its sequel, Moana 2, was released in November 2024 and was highly anticipated due to the success of the first movie. After eight years of waiting, Moana 2 returned with the same main cast, including Auli’i Cravalho as Moana and Dwayne Johnson as Maui, but with a few changes — new characters and even more cultural diversity. Moana 2 was a massive box office success in North America, surpassing the earnings of the previous movie. It also grossed $717 million worldwide as of December 2024, ranking third on the 2024 worldwide box office list.

-Synopsis (*Spoiler Alert)

Moana has been spending her time as a navigator for her tribe, traveling the seas to find the tribes of other islands. When her father gives her the title of Tautai, meaning “the linker of the great ocean,” she receives a revelation from her ancestor, Tautai Vasa. He tells Moana that Nalo, the god of storms, has cursed the island of Motufetu, causing it to disappear. Motufetu is a hub that connects people from different islands. Tautai Vasa warns that if she does not find Motufetu, Motunui, the home of her tribe, will also disappear. Can Moana find this lost island and break the curse?

Finding the Way

-A Journey Lost at Sea

Although Moana 2 achieved significant commercial success, it did not receive high ratings from audiences and critics. The film received a 61% rating on the movie review website Rotten Tomatoes, with more people finding Moana 2 disappointing compared to its predecessor, which achieved a 95% rating. The primary reason for the negative reviews was the film’s original soundtrack (OST) and climax, which was said to be underwhelming. The first Moana film’s title song, How Far I’ll Go, remained popular long after the movie’s release, whereas Moana 2’s OST failed to leave a lasting impact. In fact, Matt Singer, editor-in-chief of the movie review site ScreenCrush, stated, “Moana 1’s musical numbers were its greatest strength; Moana 2’s musical numbers are its biggest weakness.” Another complaint was that the movie lacked a distinct climax. It was only during the post-credits scene that the movie’s ultimate villain, Nalo, appeared, where he said, “No, this is just the beginning!” Because of this tease, many viewers felt that Moana 2 served more as a setup for the next sequel, giving it the feel of a transitional “1.5 quality movie.” The upcoming Moana 3 has the potential to be better received if it addresses the criticism of the second film.

-Adrift in the Tides of Fate

The story continues from the prequel but still introduces enough fresh elements to feel distinct and engaging. While the first installment focused on Moana and Maui’s voyage, Moana 2 introduces new characters and unique dynamics through Moana’s journey with Loto, the ship’s engineer; Kele, the farmer; and Moni, the historian. The return of Heihei, the chicken; Pua, the pig afraid of water; and Kakamora, the coconut pirates who brought laughter in the first movie with their quirky charm, ensues plenty of humor throughout Moana 2. Additionally, the film’s detailed setting immerses the audience, making them feel as though Moana’s tribe truly exists in the heart of the ocean, enhancing the seascape’s beauty and realism. In fact, Dana Ledoux Miller, co-director and co-writer of Moana 2, stated that she was inspired by the myths of islands that sailors would encounter in the center of the Pacific. Furthermore, Moana 2 delivers a touching and comforting message, showcasing Moana’s growth from the first series. She demonstrates leadership by guiding her team, revealing her potential to lead her tribe in the future. The most moving part of the movie is her resilience in the face of trials and grief. On the way to Motufetu, a massive wave nearly drowns one of the sailors, causing Moana to blame herself and question her abilities. However, the heartfelt support of Maui and the unconditional trust of her crew gives her the strength to persevere, pushing her forward with renewed determination. Moana’s perseverance and determination serve as an inspiration to the audience facing challenges in their own lives.

Can I Get A Chee Hoo?

Chee Hoo is a Hawaiian expression often used to show joy and celebration.

Matangi: "Remember, there is always another way. Even if you have to get lost to find it."

Gramma Tala: "Together still, just a little different."

Moni: "I spent my whole life learning our people's stories; because of you, I get to live one."

Reaching new goals in life is a journey everyone experiences. However, no matter how much effort is invested, the result might unfold in unexpected ways. In these moments, is it better to give up or seek a new direction? Here is the message from Moana 2: there is not always a fixed path; sometimes, the best paths are the ones discovered along the way. To all Kingos embracing their bright and adventurous twenties, Chee Hoo!