"What lies beyond the horizon we see, a story untold, a journey set free..."
These opening lyrics from Moana 2's standout song, "What Lies Beyond," perfectly capture the spirit of this breathtaking sequel – a story of courage, discovery, and the unyielding connection between Pacific Islanders and their ocean. It's a fitting anthem for a film that doesn't just entertain but invites us to look deeper, beyond the waves, to celebrate the strength and beauty of our shared heritage.
Our team had the incredible privilege of attending the world premiere of Moana 2 in O'ahu — a setting that couldn't have been more fitting. The premiere was held outdoors, with the Hawaiian breeze gently weaving through the crowd and the distant sound of waves breaking on the shore. It was as if the ocean itself was celebrating this moment. For me, it felt like a piece of home — like being back in Samoa. That indescribable connection to the land and sea made this experience all the more meaningful, and I couldn't help but feel immense gratitude to witness such a moment firsthand.
The choice to premiere the film in Hawai'i felt like a beautiful homage to the Pacific Islands and the stories that inspire Moana. There's a unique kind of magic in watching a film like this on an island, surrounded by people who understand the significance of what's being shown on screen. It was a celebration of our culture, our stories, and our people on a global stage.
A Masterpiece, Plain and Simple
Now, let's talk about the film itself. In my opinion, Moana 2 is a masterpiece, plain and simple. And no, I'm not just saying that because I'm Samoan or because I'm a Pacific Islander. I'm saying it because it genuinely moved me. I cried plenty of times (bring tissues!), not just because of the stunning visuals or the emotional storytelling, but because I saw myself, my family, and my ancestors reflected in so many frames.
One of the most impressive aspects of Moana 2 is Disney's commitment to authenticity. From the traditional practices depicted to the Pacific language songs woven into the narrative, it's clear that great care was taken to ensure the story remained true to its roots. The collaboration with Pacific Islander cultural advisers added depth and accuracy, creating a film that feels genuine and heartfelt.
As I watched, one quote kept coming to mind: Epeli Hau'ofa's powerful words,
"We should not be defined by the smallness of our islands, but by the greatness of our oceans. We are the sea, we are the ocean."
This film embodies that sentiment, celebrating not just the beauty of the Pacific Islands but the greatness of the people who call it home.
That's Us. That's Our Story.
Watching Moana 2, I saw the values my parents taught me growing up, the traditions my grandparents passed down, and the resilience of my community. For young Pacific Islanders, this film is a beacon of pride, a moment of representation that we've long waited for. For our elders, it's a celebration of everything they've worked so hard to preserve. It's the kind of film that makes you sit back and think, Wow, that's us. That's our story.
My siblings even mentioned something that stuck with me: they wished this film had existed when they were younger. But knowing that it exists now for the next generation of Pacific Islanders, and for the world to see, is a blessing in itself.
The directors — David Derrick Jr., Dana Ledoux Miller, and Jason Hand — have successfully crafted a sequel that builds on the legacy of the original while carving out its own space as a cultural treasure. The animation is breathtaking, the storytelling is rich, and the music? My favorite track? "Finding the Way" by Te Vaka, Olivia Foa'i, and Opetaia Foa'i — a song that will stay with you long after the credits roll. I'll always cherish songs in our Pacific languages, they bring such a special and heartfelt connection!
Make It a Priority
If you haven't seen Moana 2 yet, make it a priority. It's more than just a movie — it's a celebration of who we are. It reminds us to fight for what we believe in, to stand tall, and to honor the deep love we have for our family, our community, and our ocean.
A massive fa'afetai tele lava to everyone who brought this film to life, from the directors and animators to the cultural advisers and musicians. This is our story, told with love and care, for the world to see. And for that, we are forever grateful.
So, grab your family, grab some tissues, and immerse yourself in Moana 2. You'll laugh, you'll cry, and most importantly, you'll feel proud to be part of a story that stretches beyond the horizon!
Images provided by the featured individuals or sourced from their public social media profiles and online platforms. All rights remain with the original creators. Originally published in PMN+ Magazine, December 2024 (Vol. 1 No. 8).
December 2024 · Digital Magazine
