The Seemingly Inevitable Story of Moana 3: Why Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Return is Crucial
Despite the mixed reception of Moana 2, the box office numbers are promising, indicating that the sequel is still resonating with audiences worldwide. The film’s ending and post-credit scene hint at a potential third installment, Moana 3. If it happens, the film must bring back a key player from the original film, who was noticeably absent in Moana 2.
Lin-Manuel Miranda’s absence from Moana 2’s soundtrack is a notable disappointment. His involvement in Moana’s soundtrack, along with Mark Mancina and Opetaia Foa’i, made it catchy, unique, and emotionally resonant. The songs, such as “How Far I’ll Go” and “You’re Welcome,” remain memorable, even eight years after the film’s release. While the new songwriters, Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear, did an admirable job, they couldn’t replicate Miranda’s impact, making the songs more forgettable.
To make Moana 3’s soundtrack the best in the franchise, Lin-Manuel Miranda must return. Combining his creativity with Mancina, Foa’i, Barlow, and Bear could result in a diverse soundtrack with both catchy and unforgettable songs. This would surpass the promising but imperfect songs of Moana 2 and reinstate the franchise’s musical magic. With Moana 2 setting the stage for a potential third installment, Lin-Manuel Miranda’s involvement is crucial to making Moana 3 a success.