Disney’s Moana 2, the highly anticipated sequel to Frozen and Wish, releases in Japan on December 6. The song “Beyond (Koete Yukou),” performed by Japanese Moana voice actress Tomona Yabiku, has just debuted in an official music video, building excitement among fans. Yabiku, who captivated Disney’s production team with her moving performance during her original casting, reprises her role as Moana. Since her debut, she has showcased her vocal and acting talents in acclaimed musicals like Les Misérables, Miss Saigon, and Jane Eyre, earning praise from the Moana 2 directors, who called her “inspiring” and thanked her for her “passion and artistry.”

The Significance of “Beyond (Koete Yukou)”

Following the emotional impact of “How Far I’ll Go” from the first Moana, the new song “Beyond” again serves as a pivotal musical moment in the story. Now three years older, Moana must navigate her destiny as the once-in-a-millennium “Tautai,” responsible for connecting all seas. On her journey, she learns of the cursed “Storm God,” whose rage and resentment tore the world apart. Moana discovers that by finding a legendary island at the farthest reaches of the ocean, she could break this curse and reunite the world.

While Moana’s quest is fraught with life-threatening peril, her love for her little sister Simea, her family, and her island’s people compels her to face her fears and doubts, resolving to “go beyond” and overcome her own inner struggles. Her determination is embodied in “Beyond,” a powerful track that echoes her courage and resilience.

Produced by Grammy Winners Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear

Grammy-winning duo Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear crafted the song with powerful intent. Barlow shared that they wanted to express Moana’s emotional sacrifice in leaving her family and sister to face an unknown world. “When we finished the song, I felt instantly that it was perfect,” she said confidently. Bear added that “Beyond” has a slightly darker tone than “How Far I’ll Go,” reflecting Moana’s growth, her deepening love for her sister, and the complex emotions of maturity and potential loss.

Story Summary:

Set three years after the events of Moana (2016), the sequel follows Moana, who shares a special bond with the ocean, as she searches for people across the seas in her role as a "Tautai" (The Guide), a position granted only once in a thousand years. Upon returning to her home island after a long voyage, she is greeted by her younger sister Shimea, whose presence has strengthened Moana's resolve and love for her family and community.

One day, Moana learns of an ancient legend: "Once, the world was connected by the sea, but a vengeful god tore it apart. If one reaches the island at the edge of the ocean, the curse will be broken, and the world will be united once again." Despite the dangers ahead—so great that few survive the journey—Moana makes the bold decision to sail and restore the broken bonds of humanity.

Determined to protect the people she loves, Moana sets off on this perilous journey, overcoming self-doubt and internal conflict. Along the way, Maui reassures her, saying, "Moana, you're not alone," while her grandmother Tala’s wisdom and the support of new friends guide her through the trials ahead.

Japanese Official Site

Source : ORICON NEWS