Disney’s Moana 2 takes viewers on a vibrant journey across the ocean but falls short of the groundbreaking charm of the original. While it retains much of the magic that made Moana an instant classic, this sequel is a lighter, less impactful voyage.

The original Moana set an almost unattainable standard. As one of Disney’s most celebrated animated films, it earned praise for its refreshing Polynesian mythology, dazzling animation, and unforgettable characters like Moana (Auli’i Cravalho) and Maui (Dwayne Johnson). Critics hailed its originality and ingenious songs by Lin-Manuel Miranda, placing it near the top of Disney’s cinematic pantheon.

The sequel begins with Moana leading her people as voyagers, following the first film’s conclusion. The story takes an intriguing turn when she learns of Motofetu, a cursed island that once served as a hub for ocean civilizations. The premise gives Moana a compelling reason to reunite with Maui and set out on a high-stakes quest to restore the island’s legacy. Yet, despite this promising setup, Moana 2 doesn’t capture the same sense of urgency or wonder.

The film retains its bold, colorful animation and lively pacing but leans heavily on broader humor and less substantial storytelling. The songs, while enjoyable, feel more obligatory than integral, lacking the emotional depth that defined the first movie. They serve more as filler than as moments of revelation or character development.

While the journey is entertaining, it lacks the fresh sense of discovery that made its predecessor so beloved. The stakes feel lower, and the humor, though fun, occasionally overshadows the heartfelt moments that made Moana a standout.

Sir Elton John has revealed that his upcoming album is on hold due to ongoing struggles with his eyesight following an infection in July. The legendary singer shared on ABC’s Good Morning America that he has been unable to see out of his right eye for four months, while vision in his left eye has also been impaired.

Discussing the challenges, he explained, “I can do something like this [interview], but going into the studio and recording, I don’t know, because I can’t see a lyric for a start.”

Elton expressed frustration, saying, “It kind of floored me… I can’t read anything, I can’t watch anything.”

While he admitted he’s currently “stuck” and hasn’t worked on the album recently, he remains hopeful about his recovery. He shared that ongoing treatments have brought “hope and encouragement” that his condition will improve.

For now, the 76-year-old icon is focusing on his health, with optimism that his creative endeavors will soon resume.

Barbara Taylor Bradford, the celebrated novelist whose works captivated millions worldwide, has died at the age of 91. Known for her sweeping epic novels, Bradford’s career-defining debut, A Woman of Substance (1979), sold 30 million copies, inspired seven sequels, and was adapted into a TV mini-series that became Channel 4’s most-watched program in 1985.

Over her illustrious career, Bradford wrote 40 novels, including beloved series like Ravenscar, Cavendon, and House of Falconer. Her storytelling, often centered on ambitious and resilient women, resonated deeply with readers.

Charlie Redmayne, CEO of HarperCollins, described Bradford as “a truly exceptional writer whose first book, the international bestseller A Woman of Substance, changed the lives of so many who read it—and still does to this day.”

Lynne Drew, her editor and publisher, praised Bradford’s work ethic and enduring curiosity, saying, “She epitomized the woman of substance she created and was an inspiration for millions of readers and countless writers.”

Bradford’s debut novel, A Woman of Substance, tells the rags-to-riches story of Emma Harte, a maid who rises to become the owner of a major department store. The book’s themes of ambition, perseverance, and empowerment struck a chord, leading to a successful TV adaptation that earned two Emmy nominations and an enduring place in pop culture.

Born in Leeds, England, Barbara Taylor Bradford began her career as a journalist before transitioning to fiction writing. Her novels, characterized by their generational sagas and complex characters, have been translated into over 40 languages and sold more than 90 million copies worldwide.

Bradford’s influence extended beyond literature; she was a beacon of inspiration for women aspiring to break barriers. Her stories of ambition and resilience remain a testament to her belief in the power of determination.