Disney’s highly anticipated sequel, Moana 2, made its grand debut in theaters on November 27, 2024, eight years after the original film captivated audiences worldwide. In an exclusive interview with Travel Noire, the creative minds behind the film shared insights into its cultural and environmental significance, as well as its themes of personal growth.
Moana 2’s Themes Of Personal Growth And Community
Auliʻi Cravalho, who reprised her role as Moana, expressed excitement about the film’s commitment to themes of growth, culture, exploration, and the importance of home.
“I love Moana as a film and as a character because the story is so expansive. When I think of Moana, I think of my culture; I think of the Pacific Island people who are master navigators,” Cravalho shared. “They have been for thousands of years. They traveled over thousands of miles to populate different islands in the South Pacific chain.”
The film’s focus on looking to the future while honoring ancestral knowledge resonates strongly in today’s world. It encourages viewers, particularly younger audiences, to dream big and work hard while staying connected to their roots and communities. Reflecting on the first film’s impact on her life, Cravalho noted:
“This film started my career. I grew up on a small island in the middle of the sea, so the fact that I have now gone far beyond the reef is a full-circle moment,” she said.
A Message Of Sustainability, Respecting Cultures And Traditions
Furthermore, Moana 2 takes a step forward in addressing contemporary issues, weaving a powerful message of sustainability and cultural respect throughout its narrative. The film portrays Moana’s journey as a personal quest and a mission to preserve the balance between nature and human society.
As Moana navigates through different island communities, she encounters various environmental challenges that mirror real-world issues Pacific Island nations face. Speaking about what they want viewers to take from the film regarding respecting the environment when traveling to Hawaii, writer and director Dana Ledoux Miller emphasized the importance of respecting the land and the people.
“The people of the Pacific are on the front lines of climate change, and their islands are being washed away literally. So, the idea that the ocean is a part of us and is what connects us is a big part of Moana 2, Miller said. “It’s as easy as don’t throw your trash in the ocean. Pick up some trash when you see it. It’s really important to find out what’s important to the people whose land you are visiting and take part in some of that care alongside them,” she added.
Additionally, Cravalho provided some eco-friendly travel tips for those visiting Hawaii. “Hawaii is interlocked with tourism, and it is one of the major ways we create revenue. We are also a beautiful people. We are hospitable and understand why you want to visit our home, but once you leave, it is still our home. So, treating our home with respect is one of the main things I hope people will come and take away, the actress stated.”
“Come, go to historical places, take a tour, and truly learn about our Hawaiian islands; leave our home better than you found it. Also, go home. Go back home. Wherever you came from. You can come to visit. We are sadly being priced out of our own paradise. I don’t live here. It’s too expensive for me to buy a home here for my family. Remember that we want to live here ourselves,” she remarked.
Watch the full interview with the cast and directors of Moana 2 below. Moana 2 is now in theaters.
