It seems like Disney is at it again with another sequel that’s hoping to make waves, in this case, “Moana 2” hitting Italian cinemas in November. And, boy, the director, David Derrick Jr., is singing its praises like a Moana-stuck-in-an-elevator-forever song – it’s a human-centric, empathy-fueled adventure that promises to break your heart into a thousand little pieces before stitching you back together like a beautiful Polynesian tapestry.
“Moana has grown up,” they say, but what if she’s not grown-up enough? We’re just asking. They also boast about the 4 years it took to make it, which only gets me more worried – we’ve been watching the development of Windows Vista for years, guys, and you know where that ended.
Apparently, this time Moana becomes a leader – who wasn’t expecting that, it’s not as if, “Oh no, here comes another teenager to single-handedly save humanity!”… yawn – while sailing to other Pacific islands as her ancestors watch from on high, likely saying: “Oh bloody hell! What is that young child doing now?! Stop risking your life; it is too precious; your Netflix password is saved.”
Disney makes it sound very heartstring-tugging but don’t be fooled! You heard that right! We think the real hook is Disney finally embracing real stories which aren’t going to please the easily impressed Disney folk but we also get another 4 new years’ worth of films on Moana; isn’t progress great? So if at this point your emotions range from, “Ooh, cute little adventure story” all the way to “ Wait a few more years till Netflix is desperate enough to throw in with Moana.” then have a seat as Disney proudly shows off “Moana 2″ as all their other classics continue running wild on repeat, year in and out.
After almost a decade, one might wonder how Disney survived so long making sequels, but to each of us, some stories must go on to inspire others on how to bring more creative content to viewers without actually being creative ourselves, such as Moana’s trusty sidekick Maui still along for another round for good measure of laughs… I mean emotional growth? I mean “Wait – where’s Pua! We need our fix!”
And because I, as a mix of our comedic heroes: Jimmy, Rowan, Ricky & Lee, think you’ll enjoy this. So just like the old saying – “Save for old age, by keeping that Netflix free trial going with all them movies and your old mates – Moana and family.”
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"Moana’s Real Superpower is Empathy," says Director of Oceania 2
The highly anticipated sequel to the Disney animated film, Oceania 2, is set to hit Italian cinemas on November 28, 2024. In an interview with ANSA, director David Derrick Jr. revealed the true power that drives the protagonist, Moana. According to Derrick Jr., Moana’s greatest asset is empathy, an extremely human power that we should all strive to cultivate.
Moana’s Journey as a Leader
Moana is now a confident teenager and expert navigator, admired and respected by her community. Her parents, who initially had apprehensions about her explorations, are now filled with pride. However, Moana feels a deep sense of responsibility towards her people and is driven by a desire to care for them. As Dana Ledoux Miller, co-writer of the film, puts it, "Moana’s true superpower is empathy. She wields power through care because she cares deeply about her people."
A Team of Experts Aided the Production
A team of anthropologists, historians, and scholars of Pacific culture and languages supported the production of Oceania 2 from the very beginning. Jason Hand, co-director, explained that the team was inspired by a Polynesian saying: "The ocean does not separate, but unites." This message resonated deeply, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, when the team realized that despite their physical distance, they were still connected through a sense of community and friendship.
The Call of the Ancestors
Moana sets sail on a perilous journey across the Pacific, responding to a call from her ancestors. She assembles a diverse and colorful crew, including her inventor friend Loto, the storyteller Moni, the elderly cook Kele, the pig Pua, and the absent-minded hen Heihei. The demigod Maui, who accompanied Moana on her previous adventure, will also make an appearance. With her trusty crew by her side, Moana embarks on an epic adventure that will take her to new islands and challenge her in ways she never thought possible.
Almost a Decade in the Making
Oceania 2 arrives almost a decade after the original film. However, in the internal narrative time of the film, only three years have passed. The Polynesian heroine is now a conscious teenager, expert navigator, and respected leader. Her parents have finally found pride in their daughter, who has all the makings of a true leader.
Co-Writer Dana Ledoux Miller on Empathy and Leadership
Dana Ledoux Miller, co-writer of Oceania 2, emphasized the importance of empathy in leadership. "Moana brings people with her and feels responsible for them. Thus, she discovers herself in a new dimension, that of the leader. Her true superpower emerges: empathy." Miller also highlighted the unique perspective of the film, shaped by the team’s Polynesian heritage. "Being Samoan, telling a story rooted in Pacific culture is a huge responsibility, but also a joy. Every morning, I came to work thinking about my cousins, my uncles. I hope that when they see the film, they feel represented, celebrated."
Get Ready for an Emotional Ride
The official trailer of Oceania 2 promises an emotional journey, filled with stunning animation, heart-pumping action, and a story that will resonate with audiences of all ages. Derrick Jr. and Miller assure that the film will be an emotional rollercoaster, taking viewers on a journey from pure emotion to pure fun. As Miller quips, "Get your tissues ready, but also be ready to have a good laugh."
