Los Angeles, California – The highly anticipated release of Moana 2 was met with disappointment among fans and critics alike due to its lackluster soundtrack. Unlike its predecessor, which featured an iconic score composed by Lin-Manuel Miranda, the sequel’s music failed to resonate with audiences. The absence of memorable songs in Moana 2 left a gaping hole that highlighted the brilliance of Miranda’s work on the original film.
While Moana 2 managed to surpass the low expectations set by previous Disney failures, such as Wish, its derivative melodies and lackluster lyrics fell short of capturing the essence of the Polynesian culture that the film is rooted in. Miranda’s unique blend of catchy tunes and insightful lyrics in the first Moana set a high bar for musical excellence in the Disney universe, making his absence in the sequel all the more apparent.
The “I want” songs in Moana and Moana 2 serve as a stark contrast in the quality of songwriting. Miranda’s ability to deeply explore a character’s desires and motivations through music elevated Moana to a level of storytelling that the sequel failed to replicate. The introduction of new songwriters in Moana 2, while promising in their own right, lacked the nuanced touch that Miranda brought to his compositions.
Musical storytelling is a fundamental element in Disney animated films, with composers like Alan Menken and Howard Ashman setting a high standard for excellence. Miranda’s understanding of this tradition and his ability to infuse realism and depth into his lyrics have solidified his place as a musical genius in the Disney realm. While Moana 2 may achieve commercial success, it falls short in delivering the emotional depth and character development that Miranda’s music effortlessly accomplished.
In the ever-changing landscape of Disney musicals, Miranda’s contributions stand out as a testament to his unparalleled talent and understanding of the genre. As the industry continues to experiment with new composers and styles, the failure of Moana 2’s score serves as a reminder of the importance of substance over style in creating enduring musical masterpieces. It is clear that Miranda’s legacy in the world of Disney music remains unmatched, showcasing a level of artistry that is hard to replicate.