Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

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Screenwise Verdict

Moana 2 does what Disney sequels do: delivers a visually stunning, culturally-grounded adventure that's safe, entertaining, and won't make you want to leave the room. Is it as groundbreaking as the original? Probably not. Will your kids love it anyway? Absolutely.

The wayfinding theme continues to be a beautiful framework for talking about heritage, courage, and finding your path—literally and metaphorically. The new crew dynamic adds fresh relationships to explore, and the 'dangerous, long-lost waters' promise enough stakes to keep everyone engaged.

This is a solid family movie night choice that checks all the boxes: gorgeous animation, catchy music (prepare yourself), positive messages, and cultural respect. It's new enough that kids are genuinely excited about it, which honestly counts for a lot when you're trying to find something the whole family can agree on.

The WISE score reflects that it's a well-executed Disney sequel with strong values and entertainment value, even if it's playing in familiar waters (pun intended). Not revolutionary, but reliably good—and sometimes that's exactly what you need.

Age Fit

Perfect for the 4-12 crowd who want adventure without nightmares. Younger kids get the colorful action and songs, older elementary kids appreciate the character growth and cultural elements. Tweens might still enjoy it but won't admit it to their friends.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

88

Disney sequel maintains the franchise's emphasis on family bonds, teamwork, and cultural respect. Moana's journey with a new crew models cooperation and perseverance. The wayfinding theme continues to celebrate Polynesian heritage with care. Pacing is adventure-appropriate without being overly chaotic. Loses a few points only because sequels can sometimes feel more commercially-driven than emotionally grounded, though this appears to maintain the spirit of the original.

Imaginative

82

Oceanic exploration into 'dangerous, long-lost waters' promises visual creativity and world-building. The wayfinding concept invites curiosity about navigation, ocean ecosystems, and Pacific Island cultures. Animation genre allows for fantastical elements and vibrant environments. However, as a sequel, it may rely on established formulas rather than breaking entirely new ground. Without seeing the actual execution, confidence is moderate that it delivers fresh imagination versus retreading familiar territory.

Safe

90

Disney animated family film with PG-level expectations. 'Dangerous' waters likely means adventure peril (storms, creatures) rather than graphic violence. The original Moana had minimal scary moments (Tamatoa, Te Kā) that were age-appropriate. No indication of inappropriate content, though some action sequences may startle very young viewers. As a theatrical Disney release, safety standards are high and predictable. No platform concerns for a traditional movie.

Enriching

80

Continues themes of self-discovery, cultural identity, and environmental stewardship. Wayfinding ancestors connection offers intergenerational wisdom. Oceania setting provides educational touchpoints about Pacific cultures, navigation traditions, and ocean ecology. Character growth through challenges builds resilience modeling. Strong female protagonist in leadership role. Entertainment value is high given Disney's production quality. Slightly lower than original since sequels often prioritize entertainment over fresh insight.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

Continues celebrating Pacific Island culture and navigation traditions with apparent respect and beauty
Strong female protagonist modeling courage, leadership, and connection to heritage
Gorgeous animation and ocean environments that spark curiosity about marine life and exploration
Themes of answering ancestral calls and finding your path resonate across ages
Fresh enough (2024) that kids will actually want to watch it, unlike dusty classics gathering digital cobwebs

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What to Watch For

Adventure peril—storms, sea creatures, dangerous waters—may be intense for sensitive kids under 5
As a sequel, it might not have the same emotional punch as the original (but your kids won't care)
Expect the Disney formula: catchy songs that will live rent-free in your head for months
Some cultural elements may prompt questions about Polynesian traditions—great teaching moment if you're up for it

Conversation Starters

"What would you do if your ancestors called you to go on a big adventure?"
"Moana has to work with a new crew—what makes someone a good teammate?"
"Why do you think it's important to Moana to explore the ocean and find new places?"
"What's the scariest or most exciting part of trying something you've never done before?"
"If you could sail anywhere in the world, where would you go and why?"

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