What does the film’s mysterious poster hide and what symbolic meanings do we find in it? And above all – who is the main villain in Moana 2?
Moana 2, Disney’s upcoming animated film, is a sequel to the warmly received 2016 film Moana, which told the adventures of a young Polynesian girl named Moana. The first film, directed by Ron Clements and John Musker, focused on the journey of the main character who, driven by a desire to explore and save her people, embarks on a perilous journey across the ocean. Along the way, she meets Maui, a demigod with a shifting nature who becomes her ally.
In Moana 2, scheduled for release on 27 November, viewers will once again be transported to the fascinating world of the South Pacific islands. The film draws inspiration from Polynesian culture, mythology, and tradition. In this installment, Moana and Maui will face new challenges. Rumors suggest that they may encounter a powerful adversary linked to the forces of nature. However, the main villain has not been officially revealed yet. This leaves a lot of room for interpretation and speculation.
Denotative analysis
On the denotative layer, the painting depicts a dynamic scene in which Moana and Maui are on a boat, sailing through rough ocean waters. Maui, holding a large fishing hook—a symbol of his power—stands confidently on the deck. Moana extends her hand towards the viewer, suggesting her readiness to act. Next to them are animal companions: a small pig named Pua and a rooster named Hei Hei. These animals add a comic element. At the back, high rocks can be seen on the horizon, suggesting an unknown land or obstacle to overcome.
Connotative analysis. In search of an answer to the question: who is the main villain in Moana 2?
On a connotational level, the image is full of meanings associated with courage, determination and a sense of adventure. Moana embodies youthful curiosity and dedication to others, while Maui displays the strength and occasional arrogance of a demigod. The animals on the boat symbolize the heroes’ relationship with nature. This reflects many Polynesian beliefs, where nature is deeply integrated into culture and everyday life. The stormy sea may also be a metaphor for the upcoming difficulties and challenges that the characters must overcome.
Commutation test
In commutation tests, which are analyses that change particular elements of the image, we can try to swap characters for others or change their position. For example, if Moana did not have her arm outstretched, the image would lose its dynamism and sense of movement. Consequently, the audience would not get the impression of her willingness to engage. Similarly, if Maui did not hold his hook, he would lose his recognizable symbol. As a result, his character would become less distinct as a hero with magical powers. Furthermore, changing the rough sea to calm water greatly diminishes the dramatic effect of the image. Thus, the danger and challenges would become less palpable. Overall, the commutation test indicates that each element of the image is important in conveying a specific meaning. This, in turn, engages the viewer in the adventure.
Who is the main villain in Moana 2? Myth analysis
A Barthesian analysis of myths allows us to see in Moana 2 elements of heroic myths. The main characters stand up for their people and nature. Moana is the archetype of the heroine, whose strength comes from her deep connection to her ancestral culture and nature. Maui, on the other hand, reflects the myth of the demigod. He is a figure who balances between the world of gods and the world of humans, often serving as an intermediary. Their presence on the rough sea is a metaphor for the classic hero’s journey. Adventure here challenges you and requires you to overcome your own weaknesses.
In Moana 2, the main antagonist is Nalo, the God of Storms, who wants to keep people divided by fearing their united power. Nalo reflects the mythological archetype of the god-chaos, symbolising forces of nature that are powerful and unpredictable. He wants to keep the people separated because he fears the power of cooperation and unity. In the context of Polynesian culture, this fear highlights the importance of community and harmony with nature. The mysterious figure of Matangi, controlling the bats, also appears in the background. Matangi appears strong and menacing, which suggests she has her own goals. These goals may not always align with Nalo’s intentions, adding another level of tension and mystery to the story.
Is Nalo good or bad?
Although Nalo, the God of Storms, acts as the main antagonist, his motivations are more complex than the typical ‘villain’. So, in seeking an answer to the question: who is the main villain in Moana 2? the film leads us to a deeper reflection. Because Nalo – wishing to keep the people divided – sees their unity as a threat to the natural order he represents. Thus, he is not a classic enemy, but rather the epitome of the forces of nature, capable of being both caring and destructive. Additionally, the mysterious Matangi, a powerful bat-controlling figure, appears. This suggests that Moana will face adversaries that go beyond a simple understanding of good and evil.