Disappearance of musical writer, Lin Manuel in the 2nd Movie of Moana made the music Quite average

A Notable Absence in Moana 2’s Musical Landscape

Lin-Manuel Miranda, the mastermind behind hit songs like How Far I’ll Go and You’re Welcome, was instrumental in shaping the musical identity of the first film. However, for the sequel, Disney opted for a different direction, with a new team taking over the soundtrack’s composition and lyrics.

According to reports, Miranda was unavailable for the project due to commitments to other works, including his own theatrical productions and film collaborations. His absence has left a noticeable gap, leading some fans to argue that the sequel’s music, while still competent, fails to reach the heights of the original.

Fan and Critic Reactions

Upon the release of Moana 2, audiences immediately took to social media to share their thoughts on the new soundtrack. While some praised certain tracks for their engaging melodies, others pointed out that none of the songs stood out as iconic or memorable as those from the first film.

Film critic Sarah Whitmore from The Hollywood Reporter wrote, “While Moana 2 carries the same adventurous spirit as its predecessor, the music lacks the brilliance and emotional pull that Lin-Manuel Miranda brought to the original. It’s decent but not groundbreaking.”

Fans also shared mixed reactions on X (formerly Twitter), with one user stating, “Moana 2 is visually stunning, but I really miss the Lin-Manuel magic in the music. Nothing comes close to ‘How Far I’ll Go.’” Another added, “The songs are okay, but there’s no earworm like ‘You’re Welcome.’”

What This Means for Disney’s Musical Legacy

Disney has long been known for its iconic animated soundtracks, with composers like Alan Menken and Howard Ashman setting high standards. Lin-Manuel Miranda’s work on Moana continued this legacy, blending traditional Polynesian elements with his signature Broadway flair.

Without his influence, Moana 2’s soundtrack still manages to support the film’s narrative, but lacks the standout moments that defined the original. Some industry insiders believe that Disney may consider bringing Miranda back for future projects to recapture the magic that made the first Moana such a success.

Despite its breathtaking animation and compelling story, Moana 2 faces an uphill battle in matching its predecessor’s cultural and musical impact. While the new soundtrack is serviceable, many fans feel that it falls short of the high bar set by the first film. Whether Disney will take note of these reactions and consider Miranda’s return for future projects remains to be seen.