Combining amplified flaws with softened strengths, Moana 2 is a downgrade. Its faint arc is weakly set up because the protagonist is nearly flawless. There's explanatory dialogue, excessive characters, pointless digressions, vague stakes, mediocre triumph, and unpacked resolution. Because its heart is less earned, the story's predictability is less forgivable. This script may follow a functional formula but its ingredients are a cluster of muddled bits. Despite personalities and singing abilities, each acting performance is confined to one-note. There isn't the same vulnerable longing or sense of adventure here. Consequently, Moana 2 feels like it's going through the motions.
Technically, Moana 2's frills are undercut by its stifled emotions. The editing's jazzy set pieces and tight runtime mildly offset its fumbled momentum and meandering structure. Despite proactive movement and framing, its imagery is missing the composed beauty of the original. Genre elements, stings, and climactic muting uphold a strong soundscape. Although overshadowed by its definitive predecessor, the music adds decent new songs. The production design remains culturally informed. Its cast continues the franchise's star power and representation. Beyond maintaining impressive water textures, the CGI does little of note. Ultimately, Moana 2 isn't bad but it's underwhelming.
Writing: 4/10
Direction: 4/10
Cinematography: 7/10
Acting: 6/10
Editing: 6/10
Sound: 8/10
Score/Soundtrack: 8/10
Production Design: 8/10
Casting: 8/10
Effects: 8/10
Overall Score: 6.7/10
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