'Moana 2’ songwriters defend new music: “Give it a month, all the kids will be singing it,”

'Moana 2' smashes Thanksgiving box office records but faces mixed reviews for its music and songwriting.

Moana 2 has made a strong impact at the box office, earning a staggering $225 million during the five-day Thanksgiving holiday. While the film has attracted large audiences, it has received mixed reviews, particularly regarding its music.

Some critics have expressed disappointment over the songs, suggesting they lack the Disney "hook" of the original, which featured songs by Lin-Manuel Miranda. The new tracks, written by the songwriting duo Barlow and Bear, have faced comparisons to Miranda's work in the 2016 film.

Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear, the young composers behind Moana 2, are confident that their songs will resonate over time. "Give it a month, and all the kids will be singing it," Barlow said, acknowledging the challenge of following up the success of the first movie’s soundtrack.

The duo, known for their work on the Grammy Award-winning The Unofficial Bridgerton Musical, was selected for their unique approach to storytelling through music. Director Jason Hand explained that their understanding of Moana’s character evolution made them the perfect choice for the sequel.

While Barlow and Bear drew inspiration from Miranda’s advice, including the importance of personal musical influences, they also crafted a score that reflects Moana’s growth. The film’s music integrates cultural elements, including the use of Pacific Islander languages, thanks to contributions from composer Opetaia Foa'i.

Despite early criticisms, director Hand believes the songs will ultimately win over audiences, emphasizing their emotional depth and connection to Moana's journey. The collaboration between Barlow, Bear, and the rest of the creative team has produced a soundtrack that director Dana LeDoux Miller describes as "timeless."