Moana 2’s 10 Easter Eggs & References Explained

Moana 2 sails onto the screen with a bounty of fresh Easter eggs and clever references for fans to devour. It blends nostalgic callbacks with fresh, inventive details as Disney’s beloved, slightly grown up heroine returns. This wholesome sequel ensures every frame is brimming with surprises for sharp-eyed viewers as the filmmakers tip their hat to the original film. Some of the best callbacks to the first Moana, like Maui’s humorous half-shark transformation or Moana’s Wayfinder house, consistently prove that this movie is quite obviously a tribute just as much as it’s a continuation.

Fans will find plenty to adore as familiar faces and hidden details come together to celebrate this highly-anticipated sequel. Moana 2 expands on its prototype with even more ambitious storytelling, shown through examples like Moana 2‘s gossip-worthy post-credits scene or a sly nod to Peter Pan. It’s packed with layers for audiences to uncover, and Maui’s knack for slipping in jokes about modern technology continues to shine, while Tamatoa’s return hints at a looming narrative. Every Moana Easter egg and Disney reference has been outdone in this 2024 continuation, forcing audiences to keep their eyes peeled for hidden treats.

10

Maui’s Half-Shark Transformation Returns

A Splashy Callback To The Original Moana

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Maui’s famous half-shark transformation makes a hilarious comeback in Moana 2. In the original movie, the mishap was a comedic low point for Maui. The rare occasion where Maui’s overconfidence faltered has grown into a signature move to lighten tense situations and entertain Moana. Watching Maui lean into the absurdity of his shark-man form adds a great layer to his character, blending trademark bravado with self-deprecating humor that keeps the guy as endearing as ever.

Maui smiling, showing off his tattoos, and holding his hook in Moana 2

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This transformation also serves as a clever nod to the first film. It allows fans to revel in the nostalgia while enjoying a fresh twist. Maui’s evolution from being embarrassed by the shark head to using it as a comedic weapon perfectly encapsulates his growth, and whether he’s diffusing danger or cracking jokes, Maui’s shape-shifting antics remain a highlight of the franchise, proving that even a half-shark hero can still steal the spotlight.

9

Tamatoa Returns After Moana

Look Out For The Post-Credits Scene

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Disney just couldn’t resist bringing back Tamatoa. The fabulously vain and glitter-obsessed crab from the original film’s return in Moana 2 is brief but unforgettable. As the post-credits scene teases a hilarious grudge against Moana and Maui, Tamatoa’s petty vendetta adds interesting possibilities to the Moana universe. While his screen time is limited, and featured in the post-credits scene, every second is packed with an absurd charm that has continuously made Tamatoa a fan favorite.

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Moana 2 End-Credits Scene Explained

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Moana 2 Post-Credits Scene Explained

The film also ends with a special reunion in the end credits that can set the stage for future Moana movies.

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What makes this comeback even more intriguing is the possibility it hints at future stories. Tamatoa playing a larger role in a potential Moana 3 is an exhilarating thought, as his sharp wit and love of all things shiny allows Tamatoa to remain one of Disney’s most unique villains. His brief appearance ties the sequel back to the original’s adventurous spirit, reminding audiences why Tamatoa will always be one of the franchise’s most memorable characters.

8

Dwayne Johnson’s Daughters Have A Cameo In Moana 2

Look Out For This Wholesome Johnson Family Collaboration

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Few details are as heartwarming as the cameo roles of Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s daughters. Jasmine and Tiana Johnson lend their voices to two background characters in this sequel, and their involvement adds a deeply personal touch. This cameo feels like a full-circle moment for the actor and his daughters. It’s a reminder of how storytelling can bring generations together, both on and off the screen, especially considering Dwayne Johnson’s family connection to the Moana franchise.

The Rock’s daughter Tiana Gia, born after the release of the first film, absolutely adores Moana but hilariously refuses to believe that her dad is Maui. Johnson has shared videos of himself singing “You’re Welcome” to her, only to be met with skepticism.

Their participation also highlights Disney’s knack for weaving real-life connections into their movies. It’s a small detail. However, this doesn’t take away from the larger narrative, instead it enriches it with authenticity and warmth. The voices of Johnson’s daughters reflect the themes of family and legacy that resonate throughout Moana 2, making their contributions a delightful Easter egg for fans to discover, and it’s always fun to see entire families get into acting.

7

Moana’s Wayfinder House References The First Film’s Events

Major Tribute Is Paid To The Original Film

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The Wayfinder House in Moana 2 stands as a tribute to the events of the first film. Built by the water, its open design and intricate carvings celebrate her people’s reconnection with their heritage. Inside, observant viewers can spot subtle references. Nods to earlier adventures, like a replica of the Heart of Te Fiti, symbolize the restoration of harmony. The house itself feels like a character. It brims with life and history, channeling a revival of community through Moana’s individualistic growth. It’s an incredibly deep concept for a Disney film-but then again-the company never fails to wow audiences.

Moana looking thoughtful in Moana 2

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The visual storytelling goes even deeper with tapestries and relics. These details recall key moments from Moana’s past. Her encounter with Te Kā and her rediscovery of her ancestors’ voyaging routes are just a few examples. Each detail enriches the narrative with layers of meaning, and the Wayfinder House isn’t just a structure. It’s a beacon of her leadership and legacy. It shows how Moana’s bravery has inspired her people to embrace their identity. This space perfectly captures the balance between remembering one’s roots for time to come, as well as the importance of continuously celebrating it.

6

The Kakamora Reference Peter Pan

A Subtle Play On Disney History

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The Kakamora are back in Moana 2. Delivering a much appreciated blend of chaos and comedy, this time they arrive with a surprising twist. Among their ranks, a sharp-eyed viewer may notice a tiny green hat with a red feather perched atop one of the Kakamora’s heads. That’s right! It’s a clear nod to Peter Pan’s iconic look. This clever detail bridges the adventurous spirit of both stories. It links Kakamora’s mischievous nature to Disney’s long history of lovable rogues, and while it’s a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it moment, it’s still a delightful Easter egg that rewards attentiveness.

Moana and the Kakamora in Moana 2

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This playful reference adds an extra layer of charm to the sequel’s rich tapestry of visual gags, tying the Kakamora to one of Disney’s most cherished characters. The film highlights the company’s loyalty to adventurous traditions, and it’s also a subtle way to remind audiences that, like Peter Pan, Moana’s story is about daring to dream big and confront the unknown with courage. For fans of Disney’s interconnected world, this small but meaningful nod brings a sense of joy and nostalgia to the film.

5

Zootopia 2’s New Character Is Hidden In Moana 2’s Credits

A Genuine Easter Egg In The Actual Credits

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Disney has always possessed signature skills of reference. Its animated universe continues to grow in Moana 2 with a cameo from Zootopia 2’s snake character, Gary. Hidden in the credits and slithering amidst the scrolling names, Gary’s appearance is a treat for fans eagerly awaiting to visualize Disney’s next animated project. This clever inclusion highlights Disney’s consistent knack for creating quality Easter eggs. They are skilled at teasing upcoming stories while keeping viewers engaged with the current narrative, and for those who stick around through the credits, this small detail feels like an insider’s reward.

Nick looking smug and Judy smiling eagerly in Zootopia

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Gary’s cameo adds a playful element to Moana 2. It also reflects Disney’s broader storytelling strategy, and by weaving connections between its films, the studio creates a sense of unity across its animated projects. It encourages fans to look closer for these hidden gems, and this crossover builds hefty anticipation for Zootopia 2. While reinforcing the magic of Disney and expanding the cinematic universe, Gary’s cameo adds a subtle genius touch to the film. Zootopia 2’s release date is confirmed, leaving audiences waiting for more. This Easter egg only gives them something cool to visualize in the meantime.

4

Constellation Carina

More Nods To Polynesian Culture

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Moana’s connection to the stars deepens in Moana 2 as she uses the Carina constellation to guide her voyage, with Carina symbolizing the keel of a ship. This is a key celestial marker in Polynesian wayfinding traditions, and it holds immense cultural significance. The filmmakers pay homage to the advanced navigation techniques of Pacific Islanders with the incorporation of Carina. This highlights a deep relationship with the ocean and the cosmos, a thoughtful detail that roots Moana’s journey in authenticity, all while celebrating the ancestral wisdom of her people. Absolutely beautiful!

Carina contains Canopus, the second-brightest star in the night sky, which ancient mariners used as a navigational aid. The constellation itself represents the keel of the mythical ship which is fitting for Moana 2.

Carina acts beyond cultural significance. It’s also a metaphor for Moana’s role as a leader and unifier, with its constellation’s presence emphasizing the importance of heritage. Certain themes are blended-legacy and innovation. Through a breathtaking showcase of traditional navigation methods, Moana 2 educates viewers about Polynesian culture. It reinforces the movie’s focus on preservation and honors ancestral knowledge. Celestial reference ties Moana’s destiny to her ancestors, which makes the story feel even more timeless and grounded.

3

Maui Makes Another Joke About Modern Technology

A Continuation Of His Original Twitter Joke

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Maui is back with his signature charm in Moana 2. His hilarious one-liners come to a peak with a joke about butt-dialing. This leaves Moana and her crew utterly confused as they ponder what a “butt dial” could possibly mean, while Maui shrugs it off with a cheeky comment. “Don’t worry—it’ll make sense in 2,000 years.” is hilariously uttered by the well-loved character, creating a moment that not only breaks the fourth wall, but also invites the audience into a playful shared joke. This proves once again that Maui is as timeless as he is hilarious.

Maui smiling, showing off his tattoos, and holding his hook in Moana 2

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This modern reference mirrors Disney’s long tradition of blending ancient settings with contemporary humor. Much like Merlin’s anachronisms in The Sword in the Stone, Maui’s quip adds layers to his character. This hints that his awareness stretches far beyond his time, and these subtle nods to modern culture create comedic relief while reinforcing Maui’s mythological depth, which is also a clever callback to his joke about Twitter in the first Moana.

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The Young Dancing Boy Returns In Moana 2

A Symbol Of The Community’s Growth

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Fans of Moana will be thrilled to see the return of the young dancing boy from Motunui. Showcasing his impressive skills in a lively festival scene, the young boy’s appearance is brief. However, it captures the joy and vibrancy of island life, with his energetic dancing embodying the cultural pride and unity that Moana’s leadership nurtured within the community. Providing a heartwarming callback to the first movie’s most playful moments, the young dancing boy is a great addition to Moana 2.

The dancing boy in Moana has always been a fan-favorite moment from the original film, making it a no-brainer for filmmakers to include him in the sequel. His initial presence sparked thousands of memes, parodies, and overall discussion on social media.

His subtle return highlights the film’s focus on continuity and growth, reflecting on how Moana’s efforts to revitalize her people’s traditions have inspired the next generation. The young boy’s newfound confidence and talent symbolize a ripple effect. This is initiated by Moana’s bravery and determination, a small but impactful detail that enriches the sequel’s world-building. Inviting audiences to celebrate how much the village has subtly and metaphorically benefited from Moana’s journey.

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Moana 2’s Plot References Maui’s Stories In “You’re Welcome”

More Full Circle Moments

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Moana 2 cleverly brings Maui’s larger-than-life legends to the forefront. It cleverly weaves his boastful prior tales into the plot, which some may remember from Dwayne Johnson singing “You’re Welcome.” A standout moment sees Moana and Maui teaming up to raise the mythical island of Motufetū from the ocean’s depths, and this awe-inspiring feat directly mirrors Maui’s claims of pulling islands out of the sea. Watching this legendary act unfold on screen is a thrill as it pays tribute to the past. It simply turns Maui’s playful banter into a visually breathtaking reality.

Maui in Moana

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This narrative choice bridges the mythological realm with reality, while respecting legacy. It allows viewers to witness Maui’s epic deeds in action and emphasizes Moana’s role in these stories. She shifts from being a listener of legends to an active participant in them, and it humorously elevates Maui’s larger-than-life boasting into a real, tangible part of Moana 2‘s plot. It’s a perfect way to celebrate Maui’s charisma while giving Moana a pivotal role in fulfilling these timeless tales.

Moana 2 (2024) official poster

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8.4/10

Moana 2

PG
AnimationComedyFantasyMusicalAdventure

Moana 2 is the sequel to the 2016 animated film Moana. Directed by David G. Derrick Jr., Jason Hand, and Dana Ledoux Miller, the film continues the journey of Moana as she embarks on new adventures, exploring the vast Pacific Ocean while encountering new characters and challenges along the way.

Release Date

November 27, 2024

Runtime

100 Minutes

Main Genre

Animation

Cast

Auli’i Cravalho
, Dwayne Johnson
, Alan Tudyk
, Rachel House
, Temuera Morrison
, Nicole Scherzinger
, Hualālai Chung
, David Fane
, Rose Matafeo
, Awhimai Fraser
, Gerald Ramsey
, Khaleesi Lambert-Tsuda

Director

David G. Derrick Jr.
, Jason Hand
, Dana Ledoux Miller

Writers

Dana Ledoux Miller
, Jared Bush
, Jason Hand
, Ron Clements
, John Musker

Studio(s)

Walt Disney Pictures
, Walt Disney Animation Studios

Distributor(s)

Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures

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