Moana 3: Everything We Know (So Far)

As a film enthusiast who has spent countless hours immersed in the world of animated cinema, I must say that Moana 2 has left me both awestruck and eagerly anticipating its sequel. The strategic release of this movie during the Thanksgiving season was a stroke of genius – not only did it capitalize on the family-friendly atmosphere associated with the holiday, but it also tapped into the pent-up excitement of fans who have been waiting eight years for more adventures with our favorite Polynesian princess.


In the continuation of the original story, Moana 2, we delve deeper into the mythology, presenting a fresh antagonist and hinting that Moana’s oceanic journeys are about to extend beyond the known horizons. The closing scene paves the way for crucial storylines in the potential future film, Moana 3. However, the final decision on production rests with the box office; if it fails to generate sufficient revenue, Disney might not officially approve a third installment. Luckily, despite some divided critical opinions, the sequel has thrived at the box office.

WARNING: MOANA 2 SPOILERS!

Due to a well-timed premiere just before Thanksgiving, “Moana 2” has started shattering box office records. This isn’t entirely unexpected, as Thanksgiving is known for bringing various generations under one roof, and there aren’t many other family-friendly blockbusters to compete with “Moana 2.” Add to that the fact that fans have eagerly anticipated a sequel for eight years. Fortunately, Disney Animation seems to have learned from past experiences, so we might not have to wait too long for “Moana 3.” Even the mid-credits scene of “Moana 2” hints at the franchise’s continued future.

Nalo Is Still a Threat

In Moana 2, it’s shown that the people of Motonui have been secluded from the broader world due to the wrathful actions of a deity named Nalo (voiced by Tofiga Fepulea’i). Centuries prior to the film’s storyline, Nalo, the storm god, shattered the ocean currents that once connected various tribes. This separation led to limited interaction between different tribes, and over time, each tribe is destined to fade away, leaving their past unremembered on the surface of the Earth.

Absolutely, when Moana (Auli’i Cravalho’s voice) discovers the truth about Nalo’s enchantment, she embarks on a fresh journey to find the legendary island of Motufetu hidden beneath the sea. As soon as any person touches this island, Nalo’s curse vanishes, allowing the tribes to reunite by traveling towards each other once more.

As Moana and her companions lift Nalo’s spell, the after-scene hints that the tempestuous deity is yet unvanquished. In this scene, Nalo scolds Matangi (portrayed by Awhimai Fraser) for daring to confront him, promising retaliation. Matangi’s punishment, according to Nalo, will end once the curse is lifted. However, suspecting her involvement in Moana’s triumph, he ensnares her anew. The upcoming Moana 3 movie is tasked with resolving these lingering questions, putting a stop to Nalo’s malevolent crusade and freeing Matangi from her suffering.

In the closing scene of Moana 2, we get a hint about who might aid Nalo in the sequel. This sneak peek involves Tamatoa, the large hermit crab character voiced by Jemaine Clement, who was initially encountered and fought by Moana and Maui (Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson) in the first movie to retrieve the demigod’s enchanted fish hook. Tamatoa is a long-standing adversary of Maui, and his reappearance suggests that Moana 3 may pit old enemies against the hero’s alliance.

Moana Has New Powers

Despite the fact that Nalo and Tamatoa are formidable antagonists, Moana is set to reappear in “Moana 3” with several exciting enhancements. As the story of “Moana 2” comes to a close, the spirits of her ancestors bestow their strength upon her. This divine intervention saves Moana from perilous drowning, but it also imbues her with demigod powers. Now, Moana bears tattoos on her arms and possesses a magical artifact, her oar, which she uses to manipulate ocean currents. These newfound abilities will prove crucial when the time comes for her to confront Nalo.

In the new dynamic, Moana’s newly acquired demigod powers will shift the equilibrium between her and Maui. Previously, Moana, being resourceful and courageous, played a supportive role to Maui’s dominating demigod abilities. However, with both of them now possessing divine powers, they can equally face off on the battlefield, standing shoulder to shoulder as formidable partners rather than one outshining the other.

Moana 2 Has Expanded the Franchise’s Horizons

In the concluding scenes of Moana 2, the protagonist encounters representatives from various tribes who were called to Motufetu following the lifting of Nalo’s curse. The film ends with a glimpse at how this meeting fostered the exchange of knowledge and advancement for all parties, propelling them into a brighter future. As for Moana 3, it delves into the partnerships that Moanui forms with other tribes, as humanity bands together to confront the anger of a jealous deity.

In a new installment of “Moana 3”, we’ll venture into unknown territories as the presence of various Polynesian tribes allows for an exploration of their distinct developments over centuries of seclusion. Moreover, when long-lost wayfarers are called back, potential clashes may arise due to the improbability of everyone immediately getting along once they can communicate again. In essence, “Moana 3” will likely challenge Moana by requiring her to rebuild trust among the tribes so that they can unite against Nalo.

Moana 2 is currently playing in theaters worldwide.

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2024-11-28 17:41