Moana 2, a Disney animated movie, officially launched on 21 November 2024 in Kapolei, Hawaii. The event not only marketed the film but also celebrated Polynesian culture. The award ceremony at the Lanikuhonua Cultural Institute highlighted the Hawaiian spirit that inspired the movie.
This highly anticipated sequel takes place three years after the first film. Moana, now a skilled navigator, begins a new journey when her ancestors call her to lift a curse cast by the god Nalo. The curse has kept islanders disconnected, and Moana must break it. She sets sail again with Maui, the demigod, voiced by Dwayne Johnson.
At the premiere, Auliʻi Cravalho, Moana’s voice, reflected on the character’s growth. “At first, she doubted if she could be a wayfinder,” Cravalho said. “Now, she’s a master navigator.” Compared to the first film, Moana shows immense growth, stepping up as a leader in her tribe.
Cultural Celebration and Performances
The show opened with Hula dancers wearing leis, creating a setting that felt like Hawaii throughout the event. Details like the Hawaiian flag added to the aesthetics. The audience’s appreciation was intense, making it more than just a movie release—it felt like a celebration of Pacific Island culture.
The Moana 2 premiere wasn’t just friendly; it was deeply personal for Dwayne Johnson. As the voice of Maui in both Moana films, Johnson shares a close connection to the character. He reflected on his Samoan ancestry and ties to the Hawaiian Islands. “Maui’s journey in Moana 2 means a lot to me,” he said, noting that Maui was inspired by his grandfather, who is buried in Hawaii. “It’s pretty meaningful to me,” he added, emphasizing the film’s deep cultural significance.
Dwayne Johnson’s Family Support
Johnson brought his three daughters, Simone, Jasmine, and Tiana, to the event to support the movie and its celebration of Black culture. Simone Garcia Johnson, his daughter who followed in his footsteps as a wrestler, rarely makes public appearances, making her presence special. Johnson also shared a heartfelt Instagram post about how the Moana films inspire young girls to ask, “What if there’s more out there beyond the reef?”
For Johnson, the premiere marked a full-circle moment. “I grew up on these islands. As a kid, this was home. This will always be home,” he said, reflecting on the film’s message of hope and positivity, especially for young girls.
A Legacy of Representation in Moana 2
Moana 2 not only brings a beloved character back to the big screen but also furthers Disney’s effort to honor and represent Pacific Island cultures. Disney ensured the movie’s celebration of Hawaiian culture began at its roots in Hawaii. The crew’s respect for Hawaiian traditions and focus on portraying the culture give the film broader significance as a bridge between Hawaii Tropics and Hawaiian heritage.
Fans eagerly await the movie’s release on 27 November, counting down each week. With a plot set on the water, the protagonists grow as sea explorers, traveling to fulfill their goals. This highly anticipated sequel promises to captivate viewers of all ages, appealing to both their hearts and their eyes.
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